Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has become an established player in the Champions League and the Frenchman will celebrate 14 years in the competition, having first appeared with Lyon in February 2005 during their last 16 tie against Werder Bremen.

According to Marca, Benzema was just 17 years and 53 days old, but such was his promise that Lyoncoach Paul Le Guen decided to call him up for the two-legged clash against the German side. Though he did not feature, with Lyon winning the first leg 3-0 and the second leg 7-2, it was the Frenchman's first taste of what European football is like.

One season later, he made his debut against Rosenborg and marked the occasion with a goal; since then, he has played in every campaign without exception.

Now 31, Benzema has four Champions League medals in his trophy cabinet but that night against Werder, on 22 February 2005, was the beginning of his European journey.

https://www.thenewsguru.com/sports/football/article/madrid-striker-benzema-celebrates-14-years-in-champions-league/