By SABC Sport
12th December 2023
Karim Benzema created Club World Cup history by becoming the first player to score in four editions of the tournament as Al-Ittihad booked their place in the second round.
The former France international netted for the Saudi Pro League outfit as they won their first-round tie with Auckland City 3-0.
Benzema, who has enjoyed success in this competition with Real Madrid, put the finishing touches on victory that sets up a second-round match with Al Ahly.
The game was won with three goals in 11 first-half minutes.
Romarinho opened the scoring in the 29th minute with a deflected effort before former Chelsea midfielder N'Golo Kante doubled the lead five minutes later.
Benzema completed the scoring frenzy in the 40th minute to set up Friday's tie with the African champions.