It was a festive evening at Groupama Stadium in Lyon for the arrival of Nice. After the Bad Gones tifos before the match to celebrate their 35th anniversary, the stadium celebrated the golden ball of Karim Benzema, the child of Bron in the Lyon suburbs who played at OL between his 10 and 22 years. .
At halftime, the stadium was plunged into darkness. On the giant screens, clips showing some of his goals in the Lyon jersey were projected. Then Karim Benzema, wearing a white coat, entered the lawn illuminated by fireworks. All his former educators have formed a guard of honour. Then as a symbol, it was Bernard Lacombe, who meant a lot in his career, who presented him with his Golden Ball.
“It’s something magical”
The Real Madrid striker also introduced him to the spectators, slapping his hand over his heart several times. He then started a lap of honor under the words “Benzema, Benzema…”. The emotion on his face was palpable. Benzema then successively stopped in front of the two corners, South then North. He embraced representatives of the two kops who each offered him a scarf from their groups.
At the microphone of Prime Video, he was still moved. “It’s something magical, extraordinary. I thank Real Madrid for allowing me to realize this dream. And after, Lyon my heart club. D. This is my club, my city. I worked my way up here. Since I was little, the supporters have always been behind me. It’s a way of thanking them. »
Then he talked about the World Cup and his injury which made him miss the last games with Real. “The World Cup would be one of the best birthday presents. I am in a hurry to start this World Cup, because we have a lot of ambitions. It will be difficult, but we will take game after game. Each game will be a final. We have a good group. I will be 100%. I had some genes, but nothing serious so there is still time. By November 22, I will be mentally and physically fit. »