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Karim Benzema training in Doha
Photo:
Christophe Ena / AP
Shock for France's national soccer team: The defending champions have to do without star striker Karim Benzema at the soccer World Cup in Qatar.
The 34-year-old is out due to an injury to his left thigh, the French association said after investigations.
Benzema had previously felt a sharp pain during training in Doha and had to abandon the session.
The Real Madrid attacker is said to have injured his quadriceps and is now sidelined for three weeks.
»I am extremely sad for Karim«
"I'm extremely sad for Karim, who made this World Cup a big goal," said national coach Didier Deschamps in a statement from the association.
“Despite this renewed setback for the French team, I have full confidence in my team.
We will do everything to meet the immense challenge that awaits us," added Deschamps.
France has to cope with several failures.
In midfield, N'Golo Kanté and Paul Pogba, the duo that formed the main cast when the title was won four years ago, are no longer available.
Christopher Nkunku from RB Leipzig is missing in attack and PSG professional Presnel Kimpembe in defense.
The French start the tournament against Australia on Tuesday.
Other preliminary round opponents for the French are Denmark on November 26th and Tunisia on November 30th.
mkl/AP/Reuters
