Zinedine Zidane was quick to praise Karim Benzema after his brace against Bayern Munich fired Real Madrid to the Champions League final.
Benzema scored twice at the Bernabeu on Tuesday as Madrid drew 2-2 with Bundesliga giants Bayern in the semi-final second-leg, progressing 4-3 on aggregate.
The Frenchman has come under-fire this season following a poor return in front of goal but his compatriot and manager Zidane hailed his display on Tuesday.
Karim Benzema scored twice on Tuesday to fire Real Madrid to the Champions League final
Zidane said: ‘I’m happy for Karim because he deserves it. He’s never stopped working and he made the difference today. I’m happy for the team.’
Bayern pushed Madrid all the way in the Spanish capital and if it wasn’t for Keylor Navas, the outcome of the semi-final tie could have ended differently.
The Costa Rican, who has continually been linked with a move away with Madrid searching for a new No 1, made a remarkable eight saves against Jupp Heynckes’ side on Tuesday.
Keylor Navas produced a heroic performance as Madrid narrowly saw off Bayern Munich
And Zidane also hailed his goalkeeper’s display, adding: ‘He made a lot of saves in the second half and came out for the ball with these great players. We’re really pleased.’
Madrid will face either Liverpool or Roma in the Champions League final on May 26 in Kiev.
Liverpool hold a commanding 5-2 lead going into their second-leg at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday night.
Zinedine Zidane was quick to praise Benzema and Navas following Tuesday’s clash
Advertisement
