2023 Club World Cup: Benzema Brings Al Ittihad To The Second Round

Karim Benzema contributed Al Ittihad's winning goal over Auckland City at the 2023 Club World Cup (Instagram/@ittihadclub.sa).

Al Ittihad stepped into the second round of the 2023 Club World Cup after overthrowing representatives of the Oceania Confederation (OFC), Auckland City, with a score of 3-0 at King Abdullah Sports City on Wednesday, December 13, 2023.

The Tigers, nicknamed Al Ittihad, appeared dominant at home. They collected 55 percent possession and recorded 30 shots, 11 of which were on target.

Although he often threatens his opponent, Al Ittihad only opened the scoring in the 29th minute. Romarinho listed his name on the scoreboard after converting Zakaria Hawsawi's pass.

After the first goal, The Tigers became more comfortable and appeared unloaded. No wonder, five minutes later they managed to add goals. N'golo Kante this time contributed a goal in the 34th minute.

Meanwhile, the visitors were almost without a meaningful chance. Auckland City's four attempts were not on the net.

Al Ittihad even further away five minutes before halftime. Captain Karim Benzema put The Tigers 3-0 up after successfully utilizing Muhannad Al-Shanqeeti's pass.

There were no more goals after that. The second half also had zero goals after Al Ittihad began to loosen the pressure.

The victory brought Al Ittihad to the second round of the 2023 Club World Cup. They have been waiting for Al Ahly as a representative of the African Confederation (CAF) who will duel on December 15, 2023 local time.

In the second round chart next to him, Leon, who is the representative of Concacaf, will meet Urawa Red Diamonds as deputy of the Asian Confederation (AFC) on the same day.

The winner between Al Ahly vs Al Ittihad has been waiting for Conmebol's representative, Fluminense, in the semifinals which will be played on December 18, 2023 local time.

The next semifinals the day after that will be Manchester City waiting for the winner between Leon vs Urawa Red Diamonds.

All 2023 Club World Cup matches will be played in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on 12-22 December 2023 local time.

The top and third-ranked party of the Club World Cup 2023 was held on December 22, 2023, Saudi Arabia time.