Karim Benzema's penalty was saved as Al-Ittihad crashed out of the Club World Cup after a heavy loss to Al Ahly.
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Article continues below
Article continues below
- Al-Ittihad beaten 3-1 by Al Ahly
- Benzema missed a penalty at 1-0
- Club World Cup campaign ends
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WHAT HAPPENED?
Ali Maaloul put the Egyptian side 1-0 up from the spot in the 21st minute but just before half-time, Benzema had the chance to equalise with a penalty of his own. However, the French striker had his spot kick saved by goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Benzema's miss proved costly for the Saudi Pro League outfit as goals either side of the hour mark from Hussein El Shahat and Emam Ashour gave Al Ahly a 3-0 lead on Friday night. Benzema chipped in with a stoppage time goal to make it 3-1, but the damage had already been done and Al Ahly now advance to the semi-finals of the Club World Cup.
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DID YOU KNOW
Benzema was off to a good start in the Club World Cup as he scored to help the Saudi Arabian team beat Auckland City in their first game of the competition. The French forward already has 12 goals to his name from 17 matches in all competitions for Al-Ittihad.
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WHAT NEXT?
Benzema's Al-Ittihad return to Saudi Pro League action next Saturday against Al-Raed. The reigning Saudi champions have not been at their best this season as they currently sit fifth in the table – 19 points behind leaders Al-Hilal, who have played one game more.