Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema is hopeful of being fit for the Spanish champions' clash with Barcelona on Tuesday night.
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Benzema did not travel with his teammates for Saturday's away trip to Deportivo in La Liga due to a knee problem and his presence would be missed in midweek with their Copa del Rey semifinal with Barca finely poised after a 1-1 draw in the first leg.
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"I am working hard and with a lot of hope to rejoin the team as soon as possibile in this crucial week," he told the club's website.
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"I am very sorry to have not been able to be in La Coruna. My teammates and manager know that I am working hard to arrive in the best conditions as quickly as possible.
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"My sensations right now are positive and nothing makes me more excited than being in good shape to be able to help my team as soon as possible."
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The club also confirmed that Benzema's compatriot Raphael Varane would not play against Depor due to a small muscular problem.
the next game will be tough for both team.they both want to win