Benzema’s injury: Nothing serious, but will he face the Germans?

When Karim Benzema limped out of the France team in the 41st minute of the friendly game with Bulgaria, all eyes were on his leg. Even when the game continued, the cameraman was switching over to the French bench, where Real Madrid striker had a big ice pack on his injury spot. In the second half, it was all laughs for Benzema, who moved to the stands, apparently not worrying too much about the injury. And after the doctor’s examination, it was revealed that the player suffers from a "crutch", therefore from a muscle contusion, which is usually a harmless injury.

France coach Didier Deschamps downplayed the injury after the match, stating that Benzema was substituted out of percussion.

„He took a crutch on the knee and on the muscle above the knee. He felt the muscle hard, you shouldn't take a risk, that's why He's out. It's a blow, there is always worse in life. I have a high level medical staff, we are going to do the right thing. He will get better every day. The imponderables are there, you have to deal with them. There is nothing dramatic" said the coach.

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The question remains will Benzema be able to play in France’s opening match, a very important encounter with long time rivals Germany on June 15. The "crutch" - well known to footballers - or muscle contusion, is an injury produced by a direct impact on the body of the muscle, without tearing the skin. It is generally advisable to apply ice just after the stroke in order to prevent the development of a hematoma, and that’s what France medial team did after Benzema went out. In less severe cases, the player could be out for a few days only, and if this is the case with Real forward, he should be available for the first match, even if it is unlikely to see him in training before Friday or Saturday.