Karim Benzema injured and Marcelo set for ban in Real Madrid’s draw

Karima Benzema suffered a hamstring injury just 24 minutes into Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw with Levante on Saturday.

The French striker was removed from the pitch after suffering what was later diagnosed as a muscular injury. AS reports that the injury will impact Benzema for 4-6 weeks after Benzema stretched after the ball and suffered an injury to hamstring at that point.

To make matters worse, later in the second half Real Madrid full back Marcelo was sent off late in Saturday’s draw after a challenge with Levante’s midfielder Lerma. Both players were in Levante’s penalty area when the challenge took place.

"In the 89th minute of the game the player (12) Vieira Da Silva Junior, Marcelo was sent off for the following reason: kick an opponent in the back, with the ball well away from the action.”

Alejandro Jose Hernandez | Match report

Real’s vice-captain will likely receive a ban between two and four games after the incident. The incident is potentially the second incident that will lead to a key player being suspended for multiple games after a red card. Cristiano Ronaldo was suspended after a red card earlier in the season.

Losing Marcelo and Benzema at once is a devastating loss for Real Madrid. They’re entering into a tough stretch of games, starting with the Champions League opener this Wednesday.