Karim Benzema’s penalty was saved as Al-Ittihad were knocked out of the Club World Cup after a heavy defeat to Al Ahly.
Ali Maaloul put the Egyptian team ahead in the 21st minute, but just before half-time, Benzema had the opportunity to equalize from a penalty. However, the French striker saw his penalty saved by goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy.
Benzema’s mistake cost the Saudi Pro League side dearly, as goals from Hussein El Shahat and Emam Ashour on the hour mark gave Al Ahly a 3-0 lead on Friday evening. Benzema added a goal in stoppage time to make it 3-1, but the damage was already done and Al Ahly are now through to the semi-finals of the Club World Cup.
The Frenchman started the Club World Cup well, scoring to help the Saudi side beat Auckland City in their opening match of the competition. The French striker already has 12 goals to his name in 17 matches in all competitions for Al-Ittihad.
Benzema’s Al-Ittihad will return to the Saudi Pro League next Saturday against Al-Raed. The reigning Saudi champion is not in the best form this season, as he currently occupies fifth place in the standings, 19 points behind leader Al-Hilal, who has played one more match.
