Karim Benzema scored a hat-trick in Real Madrid’s game against Almeria, making him the fourth-highest scorer in La Liga history with a total of 236 goals, surpassing Hugo Sanchez.
Benzema’s three goals consisted of two close-range finishes from passes made by Brazilian wingers Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo and a penalty after Lucas Vazquez was fouled by Largie Ramazani.
Real Madrid’s victory brought them within eight points of league leaders Barcelona, and they will play against Manchester City in the Champions League semi-final on 9 May. The only players who have scored more goals in La Liga than Benzema are Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Zarra.
Almeria scored a goal just before halftime through Lazaro Vinicius, and scored again in the second half through substitute Lucas Robertone, but ultimately lost to Real Madrid.
Meanwhile, Eduardo Camavinga and Rodrygo had goals ruled out for offside, and Real Madrid were unable to score a fifth goal.
Real Madrid is currently sitting second on the La Liga table as league leaders Barcelona are leading them with 9 points which will be extended to 11 should they defeat Real Betis tonight.
