Benzema hitting form in time for cup semi

The France centre forward scored the winner in Sunday's 1-0 win at home to Real Mallorca, notching only his second goal of the season to stake a claim for the striker's role in the absence of the injured Gonzalo Higuain.

Real, seeking their first domestic Cup since 1993, have said they are still looking for an extra striker in the January transfer window, while coach Jose Mourinho has also urged Benzema to work harder for his place in the side.

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