'He's on a different level' - Zidane lauds Benzema after Eibar masterclass

The Frenchman produced yet another spectacular display as he had a hand in all three goals in his side’s fifth consecutive victory.

Karim Benzema earned the title of a ‘match-winner’ from Zinedine Zidane after guiding Real Madrid to a 3-1 win over Eibar.

The striker put his side on the front foot just six minutes in, netting his seventh goal of the campaign, before setting up Luka Modric and Lucas Vazquez to take his assists tally to five in 12 games.

Benzema both scored and assisted in a La Liga game for the 30th time – only Cristiano Ronaldo (44) has done it more often in the famous white shirt in the 21st century.

Karim Benzema has now been directly involved in 12 LaLiga goals this season, no player has had a hand in more.

Directly involved in all three goals vs. Eibar tonight. pic.twitter.com/AFDNUzK9AS
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) December 20, 2020

The 33-year-old’s heroics helped Real Madrid moved to second in the league standings and cut down the gap from Atletico Madrid to zero points.

“Benzema is a match-winner because what he’s doing is on a different level, not just because of the goals,” Zidane told after the match, via Goal.

“I always repeat myself saying the same thing about Karim. It’s not only his goals, he’s a focal point in our game. He’s very important for us and when he scores, it’s even better, obviously, but he’s very important for our team.

“We have to highlight everyone’s performance. It was a great game today and it was a great performance from both teams. It’s a well-deserved victory.”