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Real Madrid v Gremio preview: Zinedine Zidane shrugs off Karim Benzema criticism

Friday 15 December 2017 18:49, UK

MADRID, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 25: Karim Benzema of Real Madrid CF celebrates after scoring his team's opening goal during the La Liga match between Real Madrid
Image: Benzema has come under scrutiny from the Spanish media in recent weeks

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has shrugged off criticism of Karim Benzema ahead of Saturday's Club World Cup final against Gremio and says he will defend his striker "to the death".

Benzema has scored just five goals in all competitions this season - including only two in La Liga - and has found himself under increasing pressure in some quarters.

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However, Zidane has thrown his support behind his fellow Frenchman on the eve of their showdown with Gremio in Abu Dhabi, where the Spanish giants will hope to match Barcelona's record of three Club World Cup crowns.

Zidane told a press conference: "I don't agree with the critics. But no matter. What interests me isn't only goals. I don't only see goals in Karim.

He's a different player, he's not going to score 50 or 60 goals a season, but he does other things.

"He's a team player and one of the best in that sense. And I value that.

"I'll defend him to the death."

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Zidane also dismissed suggestions Real are favourites to beat Gremio, saying the final is "50-50".

In contrast, Gremio striker Luan claims his side are the underdogs, but warned Real to take nothing for granted as the Brazilian club attempt to add to their Copa Libertadores success after dispensing with Mexican outfit Pachuca in the semi-finals.

Brazil's Gremio forward Luan celebrates after scoring a goal against Argentina's Lanus during the Copa Libertadores 2017 final football match at Lanus stad
Image: Luan says Gremio will relish the role as underdogs in the final

He told FIFA's official website: "Every side in the tournament has got quality. We had a tough game against Pachuca, and Madrid had a tough game too. The matches have been close.

"What we have to do is show why we became South American champions. We've got the quality to take on Madrid."

Luan, who has tasted Olympic glory with Brazil, added: "We play with a lot of desire. They're the favourites, of course, because they've got great players and the best player in the world (Cristiano Ronaldo).

"We want to perform the same way we've been doing all year - with the style and the type of football that helped us win the Libertadores."

Follow our Club World Cup final live blog on our digital platforms from 4pm on Saturday.

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