Mission accomplished. Karim Benzema was targeting the Juventus second leg and he will be back in the fold. Despite the doubts raised about his knee when he was omitted from the squad for the Valencia match, everything is going according to plan. It would have been ideal for the Frenchman to get a run-out in La Liga, but the decision was made not to take any risks so as to ensure he is available for the most important game of the season.
Sunday's training session brought positive news. Benzema could be seen moving normally out on the pitch, free of any bandaging, and he took part in the practice match Carlo Ancelotti put on for the players that didn't feature on Saturday. He looked very lively and showed no signs of being hindered by the injury that has kept him sidelined since 14th April.
Benzema's return will be welcomed with open arms. After practically surrendering their title hopes and having struggled creatively in recent matches, Ancelotti is convinced that the no. 9 will help the side to kick on and create more chances.
In Benzema's absence, the Real Madrid coach has brought Javier Hernández in from the cold. The Mexican has made an impact and he is in Ancelotti's plans for the Juve decider, although it will almost definitely be as a substitute, with the France international restored to the starting XI. However, it is expected to be a tight game and Chicharito will certainly be turned to in the second half if 'Los Blancos' are looking for goals.
Ancelotti will put his faith in his trusty 4-3-3 to overcome the Old Lady, with the BBC leading the line. It is hoped that Benzema will help inject fresh spark into the frontline, linking up with Cristiano Ronaldo like in the good old days and reinvigorating the ailing confidence of Gareth Bale, who isn't enjoying his best period. The coach feels that Benzema has a key balancing act up front, proving the perfect foil for a pair who are much more direct and whose eyes are nearly always trained on the net.
http://www.marca.com/en/2015/05/11/en/football/real_madrid/1431296667.html