Benzema looks forward to Lyon clash

(GSM) – This year’s Champions League campaign is very special for Real Madrid because the final will be played at the Bernabeu stadium. To reach their dream final, Real will first have to see off Olympique Lyon, their opponents in the eight finals.

The meeting with the French giants is extra special for Real striker Karim Benzema, who left Lyon to join Los Merengues this summer.

The France international scored two vital goals in the important match against Deportivo la Coruna, last Saturday. The Frenchman with Algerian roots has scored seven goals in La Liga so far.

As a forward, Benzema knows what counts. “It is always important for a striker to score,” he told the club’s official website.

“Scoring is just as good as providing an assist. I enjoy both.”

After a faltering start, the 22-year-old forward seems to found the right track at Real.

“It was hard at first, but the process has made me grow as a player and person. I have never once regretted my decision. You have ups and downs in football, and this is part of the process.”

Benzema looks forward upon meeting his former Lyon teammates, when the French side hosts the Spanish giants on February 16.

“It’s going to be a great match. I grew up and spent my whole career in Lyon. It will be a bittersweet moment. I hope I receive a warm welcome because of all the years I spent there.”

“They are a great team and they always seem to do well in the Champions League. Other than losing in the Cup, they have done nothing but win in 2010. We need to be very careful.”

Benzema is aware that this year’s Champions League campaign is extra special but insists La Liga is just as important for Real.

“It is very special this year because the (Champions League) final is being played at the Bernabeu and we want to win it, but that doesn’t make La Liga any less significant.”