Real Madrid's forward Cristiano Ronaldo (2nd R) is congratulated by teammates Alvaro Morata (#21), James Rodriguez (2nd L) and Nacho Fernande (#6) after scoring a goal during the Club World Cup semi-final football match between Mexico's Club America and Spain's Real Madrid at Yokohama International stadium in Yokohama on December 15, 2016.
PHOTO: AFP
The Spanish giants will face shock finalists and local favourites Kashima Antlers in Yokohama on Sunday as they look to capture their second world title in three years.
Video penalty helps Kashima Antlers reach Club World Cup final
With Ronaldo firing blanks until the very end of the game, Benzema struck in first-half stoppage after finishing clinically with the outside of his right boot on the deft pass from Toni Kroos.
Ronaldo, who won his fourth Ballon d'Or earlier this week, had already squandered a gilt-edged chance by heading against the post.
Jet-lagged Real ready for Club World challenge
The Portuguese superstar also had two fierce shots saved by goalkeeper Moises Munoz but finally found the net deep into injury time as Real extended their club record unbeaten run to 36 matches in all competitions.
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