Karim Benzema opens up on personal rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo before the Saudi Super Cup semifinal.
Cristiano Ronaldo receive Benzema's cryptic message ahead of Saudi Super Cup showdown originally appeared on The Sporting News
Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema once shared the same dressing room, lifted the same trophies, and celebrated countless goals together at Real Madrid.
Now, years later, the two legends stand on opposite sides of the pitch in Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi Super Cup semifinal between Al Nassr and Al Ittihad is more than just another game — it’s a reunion with plenty of history and a few hints of mind games.
For Ronaldo, the competition has become a frustrating obstacle. He has yet to win the Super Cup since joining Al Nassr, falling short in each of the past three seasons.
This time, the Portuguese star knows that beating Benzema’s Al Ittihad is the first step toward ending that wait.
For Benzema, who already has league and cup titles in Saudi Arabia, this is another chance to show why he remains one of the most reliable forwards in the game.
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Benzema opens up on rivalry with Ronaldo ahead of Saudi Super Cup clash
The French striker spoke ahead of the clash and made sure to cool down the “Benzema vs Ronaldo” storyline.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is a great player. But tomorrow the best will win. I don’t know if it’s a challenge; it’s not Benzema versus Ronaldo. It’s not a Karim versus Cristiano game, no,” Benzema explained.
He also praised his former teammate, adding: “What I can say is that he’s a football legend. He has contributed and continues to contribute a lot to this sport. So, what I can wish him is the best. And that’s it, tomorrow we’ll play against each other. But it’s more Al Nassr versus Al Ittihad. So, let’s see what happens on the pitch tomorrow.”
Al Ittihad coach Laurent Blanc also chimed in with his own tease. “I have a plan to stop Cristiano. But I won’t say what it is,” he smiled, reminding fans that tactics, not headlines, may decide this match.
The stakes are high. The winner will face either Al Ahli or Al Qadisiyah in the final. For Ronaldo, it’s about rewriting his record against Al Ittihad, a team that has often spoiled his plans.
For Benzema, it’s about proving that team strength matters more than personal duels.
One thing is certain — the spotlight will follow them both. After all, when Ronaldo and Benzema share the pitch, history usually follows.
Cristiano Ronaldo news and related links
- How many trophies has Cristiano Ronaldo won?
- Al Nassr vs. Al Ittihad lineups: Predicted starting XI, team news, injury latest
- Cristiano Ronaldo set to welcome new teammate as Al Nassr awaits 'final green light'
Category: General Sports
