Carlo Ancelotti revealed ’s nemesis Karim Benzema was almost prevented from playing at Stamford Bridge last night after a security mix-up.
The veteran striker is in the form of his life and it was his hat-trick in the previous round which helped complete a stunning comeback against Paris Saint-Germain.
Chelsea, similarly, found the 34-year-old too hot to handle last night with the France international scoring three times to put the tie almost beyond the reach of the Champions League holders ahead of the second leg.
Benzema, however, was almost denied entry to the stadium after he mislaid his security pass.
‘Before the game, Benzema was not able to find his pass to enter into the stadium,’ Ancelotti told Amazon Prime. ‘I told him: ‘Be fast or you can’t play!’. Then luckily Karim found the pass.’
Benzema has now scored 37 goals in all competitions this season and is among the favourites to win the Ballon d’Or.
The Real captain now boasts hat-tricks in successive Champions League matches and also 13 goals in his last seven Madrid games in all competitions.
‘Karim Benzema is getting better every day; just like a fine wine,’ added Ancelotti. He’s more of a leader every day, he feels more and more important in this team and this squad. And I think that’s what makes the difference.
‘He has so much more personality, he knows he’s a very important player for us and he’s an example for everyone.
‘I think the most important thing was the bravery that the players showed. The key was that we brought the ball out from the back very well.
‘We were able to get between the lines and Vinicius and Karim Benzema were very dangerous. Both of them linked up very well.’
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