Karim Benzema to return for the World Cup final?

Karim Benzema to return for the World Cup final? Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)

ICYMI: Benzema available for World Cup final due to stunning loophole

Ballon d’Or holder Karim Benzema is available for Sunday’s World Cup final due to a STUNNING loophole. Will we see the 34-year-old Frenchman?

Karim Benzema to return for the World Cup final?

Karim Benzema to return for the World Cup final? Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)

Ballon d’Or holder Karim Benzema is available for Sunday’s World Cup final due to a STUNNING loophole. Will we see the 34-year-old Frenchman?

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BENZEMA COULD FEATURE IN WORLD CUP FINAL DUE TO LOOPHOLE

The Real Madrid superstar was ruled out of the World Cup just before it started with an injury to his left thigh. However, he could return to the fold having not kicked a ball in Qatar due to an incredible loophole.

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A three-week timeline was set for Benzema to return to fitness. Spanish outlet Marca state that he has returned on time and has been training without any issue since Saturday. He could make a return to the group if coach Deschamps calls upon the 34-year-old, because he was never replaced in the squad.

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world cup final 2022 benzema
Kylian Mbappe and Karim Benzema will be pivotal to France’s chances. Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP via Getty Images.

GIROUD IS THE MAIN MAN FOR NOW

Currently, Olivier Giroud leads the line for Les Bleus and has been in fine form during the World Cup, scoring four goals, including the winner against England in the quarterfinals. Benzema bagged a staggering 44 goals across all competitions last season and he also won the Champions League, meaning that he won the Ballon d’Or by a landslide. Giroud will definitely start on Sunday, but a Benzema bench appearance can’t be ruled out.

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Olivier Giroud will be the focal point for France vs Argentina in the World Cup final.
Olivier Giroud will be the focal point for France vs Argentina in the World Cup final. Photo by Odd ANDERSEN / AFP)

KARIM BENZEMA AND DIDIER DESCHAMPS SPEAK

Deschamps played down suggestions Benzema could return when quizzed on the matter during the groups:

“It’s not something I’m thinking about now. I spoke to Benzema after he left the training camp.

“I leave it to you if you want to have a debate about it. The thought hasn’t crossed my mind.”

Deschamps was quizzed on the matter once again after his side qualified for the final but was coy in his response:

“I don’t really want to answer that question, sorry,” he told journalists.


Will Benzema make a shock appearance for France vs Argentina in Sunday’s World Cup final? It’s an intriguing option for the France boss.

ICYMI: Argentina 3-0 Croatia: Record-breaking Lionel Messi sends Argentina to Sunday’s World Cup final


Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.