Karim Benzema's Panenka stunned viewers in a Champions League game that had absolutely everything, as Manchester City ran out 4-3 winners against Real Madrid.
Seven goals, the next generation shining, creative genius all over the pitch and end to end action: this was a Champions League semi-final that will be remembered for years to come.
In the 82nd minute and 4-2 down, Real Madrid were chasing the game and looked for another goal when Toni Kroos floated a cross into the box from a free kick.
Aymeric Laporte handballed, and Carlo Ancelotti’s side were awarded a penalty. Up stepped Karim Benzema, who coolly slotted a Panenka penalty past Ederson.
You wouldn't know this man missed three penalties this month.
One of the most audacious Panenkas we can remember
Watch every UCL game for free here on the LiveScore app: https://t.co/asGxlTfSUJ. Registered ROI users only. #adpic.twitter.com/9Zbn3CiW2O— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) April 26, 2022
It was an audacious kick, considering Benzema has missed two penalties against Osasuna in Madrid's last game. He's missed three penalties this month, but he backed himself against Ederson.
The reactions to those at the stadium and watching at home was priceless, with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola unable to believe what he has just seen.
Pep's reaction to Benzema's penalty 😅 pic.twitter.com/yrEp6RPrst
— GOAL (@goal) April 26, 2022
While former City striker Sergio Aguero was in disbelief on his Twitch stream, leaving his viewers with a priceless reaction.
Sergio’s reaction to Benzema’s panenka has absolutely SENT me this morning 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/rUor4ggPae
— RKZ (@RKZUK) April 27, 2022
Meanwhile on Sky Sports, Lee Hendrie's 'salt and vinegar' reaction was nearly as good as the goal itself.
"I might have to ask Ederson if he wants some salt and vinegar on that chip" 😂
Lee Hendrie's reaction to Karim Benzema's panenka is INCREDIBLE! 🤣pic.twitter.com/xSbP1E4vto— Sky Sports (@SkySports) April 26, 2022
The view from the stadium are just as beautiful as the TV footage. Here's how it looked from the sideline.
The nerve to do this in a champions league semi-final 🥶 #ChampionsLeague #realmadrid #Benzema pic.twitter.com/h8pMNM6XDd
— matty magee (@mattymagee2) April 26, 2022
And from above.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gpJZXGGVSCc
And here's how the City fans experienced it.
It takes serious confidence to even attempt a penalty of that kind in a Champions League Semi final, especially with your side 4-2 down in the 82nd minute.
The goal perfectly summed up Karim Benzema this season, who despite being 34-years-old, has brought his game to another level this season.
With 41 goals in all competitions this season, the French striker has been key to Ancelotti’s side, who are on the brink of capturing another La Liga title.
Speaking after the game, Benzema showed his strong mentality as he had already missed three penalties this season, but was happy to take another.
“I always have it in my head that if you don’t take a penalty, you will never miss a penalty. That’s mental confidence and that’s all. I have a lot of confidence in myself, so I do it and turns out well.”
Ancelotti praised him for his confidence at the penalty spot given his struggle in previous games.
“I think he changed because his last two penalties were not good. He tried in training, I didn’t know how he would shoot. He choose this (Panenka) and he did really well, showing strong personality and character.
"It’s not easy in the semi-final of the Champions League to shoot a penalty like this.”
SEE ALSO: Pep Guardiola's Reaction To Vinicius Stunner Was Absolutely Priceless
