Real Madrid 4-2 Almeria: Benzema’s hat-trick at Bernabeu
Karim Benzema bags first-half hat-trick to seal win
Real Madrid 4-2 Almeria: Karim Benzema scored a first-half hat-trick at Bernabeu as Los Blancos cruised against the visitors from Andalusia during La Liga 2022/23 Matchday 32.
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The needed victory happened only days after the utter upset of the midweek fixtures, as Valentine Castellanos netted four goals against Los Blancos in front of the home fans at the Estadi Montilivi.
Highlights
It was a nice day in the office for the Madrid’s top scorer from France, but he was benefitted from Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo who assisted brilliantly before netting his third from a penalty.
Lazaro and Lucas Robertone scored consolation goals for the visitors during each half, but Rodrygo’s long-range goal ultimately already ended the game early in the second half.
Benzema needed only five minutes to open the scoring when he tapped home after Vini’s cross with the outside of his boot.
The French talisman had his second after 17 minutes, thanks to Brazilian Rodrygo who showed his silky skill before teeing up Benzema to register the double.
Largie Ramazani was at fault as he tripped Lucas Vazquez inside the area and gave Benzema the chance to convert from the spot, which the Madrid’s man did not fail to.
Almeria clawed one back on the stroke of half-time, Lazaro tapping in Ramazani’s low cross from the left.
But any hopes of a comeback were vanished within three minutes of the restart, when Rodrygo scored from a thunderous shot into the top-right corner after finding space on the edge of the area.
Almeria hit back late in the game when substitute Robertone headed past Thibaut Courtois, but Madrid remained in control to earn the win.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side were at their devastating best when they have now scored two or more goals in five consecutive home league games for the first time since June 2020.
Benzema, who missed the humiliated defeat at Girona, now returned and registered his third hat-trick in all competitions this season.
All three were in April 2023, and two were first-half hat tricks.
Rodrygo, having added a 20-yard screamer to his terrific assist, the 22-year-old now has 14 goal involvements in LaLiga this season (six goals, eight assists) – a tally only bettered by Benzema (20) and Vinicius (19) for Madrid.
What’s next?
Madrid visit top-four contenders Real Sociedad in LaLiga on Tuesday.
Author Details
TOM is a dedicated soccer writer whose words come alive on the page, mirroring the electric energy of the pitch. With a keen eye for detail and an unbridled love for the sport
