Benzema signs off with a bang as Real Madrid wrap up LaLiga season with draw against Bilbao
In what was Karim Benzema's final game for Real Madrid, the Frenchman scored from the spot to equalise for Los Blancos against a spirited Bilbao side at the Bernabeu.
We 🤍 you, @Benzema!#GraciasKarim pic.twitter.com/7PLenHL7bE
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) June 4, 2023
🏁 FT: @realmadriden 1-1 @Athletic_en
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) June 4, 2023
⚽ @Benzema 72'(p); Sancet 49'#RealMadridAthletic | #Emirates pic.twitter.com/lTNUqPiKNg
☝️✨ #GraciasKarim ✨☝️ pic.twitter.com/7cOyMd3oQC
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) June 4, 2023
How it happened
Bilbao came ready to spoil Benzema's party and After Iñaki Williams’ header struck Toni Kroos’ outstretched arm inside the area, the referee showed no hesitation in pointing to the spot.
Mikel Vesga stepped up to take the resulting kick but his attempt was saved by Thibaut Courtois.
Ernesto Valverde’s men kept the pressure on after the restart and were rewarded with the opening goal.
The hosts got caught in possession inside their own half and Bilbao capitalised through Oihan Sancet, who was first to react to a loose ball before firing home.
Eder Militao won a penalty for Real and Benzema stepped up to score his 354th and final goal in the famous white shirt.