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via Imago

via Imago

In just a few hours the FIFA Club World Cup is set to begin. And it will kick start with Saudi club Al Ittihad facing off against Auckland City. However, before the match, Al Ittihad’s star striker, Karim Benzema sent out a message to his fans, one that the opposition including Pep Guardiola‘s Manchester City should take seriously.

Guardiola and Manchester City have already secured their spot in the semi-finals of the Club World Cup. However, for Al Ittihad to reach that level, they will have to win their upcoming match against Auckland City and another match against Al Ahly. Despite the challenge ahead, Benzema is determined to succeed.

Karim Benzema is coming to win it all

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The French striker recently sat down in an interview where he expressed his dissatisfaction with his team’s performance in the league. “I’m not happy with what we’re offering in the league, but that’s soccer,” said Benzema.  However, he quickly shifted his focus towards the Club World Cup and offered hope to his fans.

He issued a challenge to all the teams participating in the tournament, declaring, “My message to the fans is that we’ll do everything in our power to win the World Cup because it’s an important tournament for us.” Al Ittihad has had a relatively underwhelming run in the Saudi Pro League.

The last season’s winners are currently sitting in fifth place in the table. Despite this, Karim Benzema has shown impressive goal-scoring form. So far he has scored 9 goals in 13 matches and now has set his sights on the Club World Cup. Unfortunately, Al Ittihad has been dealt a major injury setback for their first match.

Al Ittihad to miss out on their star defender in the Club World Cup

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In their last game, Al Ittihad suffered a huge 3-1 defeat to Damac in the Saudi Pro League. To add to their woes, their defender Luiz Felipe sustained a painful muscle tear during the game. As a result, Felipe will be out of action for almost six weeks and will have to undergo extensive rehabilitative treatment.

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Consequently, he will be unable to play in the opening game of the Club World Cup. This loss poses a substantial challenge for Al Ittihad and Karim Benzema as they strive for cup victory without the presence of their esteemed Italian defender.

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