Real Madrid defeated Valladolid 2-0 on Friday to take the top spot in Spain's La Liga, and Karim Benzema put an end to his World Cup nightmare with two late goals. Benzema, the winner of the Ballon d'Or, was chosen to represent France at the World Cup in Qatar, but he was forced to withdraw before the tournament's opening match due to a thigh injury sustained in training.
After the competition, in which France finished second to Argentina, he then declared his retirement from playing for the national team of France. He scored his first goals since October 19 when Real overcame Elche on Friday. He had to exercise patience, though, as his first goal didn't come until the 83rd minute thanks to a penalty that Javi Sanchez was given for.
After the competition, in which France finished second to Argentina, he then declared his retirement from playing for the national team of France. He scored his first goals since October 19 when Real overcame Elche on Friday. He had to exercise patience, though, as his first goal didn't come until the 83rd minute thanks to a penalty that Javi Sanchez was given for.