France are currently gearing up for their interesting FIFA World Cup semifinal showdown with Morocco, with the defending champions aiming to make it to back-to-back finals.
One player who won't be on the pitch but will be rooting for Les Bleus is Karim Benzema. The Real Madrid star was destined to lead the line for Didier Deschamps' side but was sadly ruled out after picking up a thigh injury. However, despite not having played a single game in Qatar, the Ballon d'Or holder is still in line to earn a winner's medal should the European giants successfully defend their crown.
As explained by the well-known Spanish news outlet Marca, the 34-year-old was ruled out for the tournament but was never removed from France's squad list nor was he replaced by another player.
As a result, should Deschamps' team go all the way and lift a second consecutive FIFA World Cup title, medals will be given to all members of the squad, which currently includes Benzema.
Additionally, Karim isn't alone in this situation. Lucas Hernandez ruptured his ACL in France's opening game and was ruled out for the remainder of the competition yet was not replaced in the squad. This means that the Bayern Munich ace will receive a second winner's medal should Les Bleus successfully defend their title.
However, it will be a first for Benzema, having missed out on his country's 2018 success as he had been exiled from the national team due to the Mathieu Valbuena blackmail case.
Nonetheless, Mbappe and Co. must first overcome their semifinal opponents. While the European giants are seen as the favorites, they will be facing Qatar 2022's toughest defense: Morocco.
The Atlas Lions have conceded only once all tournament and that was an own goal. Additionally, their victories over Belgium, Spain, and Portugal show that they are capable of beating anyone.
The winner of this tie will meet Argentina in the final on Sunday. Messi and Co. booked their ticket to the ultimate game after overcoming Croatia 3-0 yesterday.
