Many football fans wonder whether Karim Benzema was part of the French team that lifted the FIFA World Cup in 2018. The short answer is no, because Benzema did not make the final squad for that tournament, but his influence on the success of the French national team remains significant.
Below you will find a clear breakdown of the 2018 World Cup context, squad decisions, and how Benzema’s role evolved in the years that followed. This article is designed to answer specific questions while giving you a detailed and easy-to-scan overview.
| Year | Team | Competition | Result | Key Players |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | France | FIFA World Cup | Winner | Mbappé, Griezmann, Pogba, Varane |
| 2010–2016 | France | International football | Period of transition | Benzema, Ribéry, Ben Arfa |
| 2021–2022 | France | UEFA Nations League / World Cup qualifiers | Strong runs | Benzema, Mbappé, Kimmich |
| 2022 | France | UEFA Nations League | Winner | Benzema, Kimpembe, Tchouaméni |
2018 World Cup Squad Selection
Before the 2018 World Cup, Didier Deschamps faced tough decisions about the final 23-man roster. Selecting the right mix of youth, experience, and tactical fit was critical for the team’s chances.
Why Benzema Was Left Out
Karim Benzema was omitted from the initial list due to form and a controversial circumstances involving an alleged blackmail case. Deschamps prioritized stability and immediate impact, favoring other strikers who were in stronger form at club level.
Forwards in the Final Squad
The forward line included Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Mbappé, Olivier Giroud, and Dimitri Payet. This combination offered pace, hold-up play, and creativity, reducing the need for Benzema’s specific profile in the system.
Benzema’s Club Form in 2017–2018
At club level, Benzema was playing for Real Madrid and showing strong performances in the Champions League. His partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo pushed him to score crucial goals late in the season.
However, the timing of the World Cup came shortly after a period of inconsistency at club level, and national team selectors often hesitate to include players who are perceived to be in a rebuilding phase.
Impact and Recognition After 2018
Although Benzema missed the 2018 triumph, he remained a key figure for Real Madrid and France in the following years. His leadership and finishing were vital in club competitions, setting the stage for a later return to the national team.
Later National Team Return
After an absence of several years, Benzema was recalled to the French setup and eventually played a decisive role in winning the UEFA Nations League in 2022. This demonstrated his enduring quality and value at the highest level.
Tactical Fit and Player Roles
France’s 2018 system relied on quick transitions, wing play, and a mobile striker who could press defenders. Benzema’s traditional number nine style did not perfectly align with the preferred movement patterns, which favored younger, faster forwards.
As the years passed and the tactical approach evolved, Deschamps recognized how Benzema’s playmaking ability and positioning could complement Mbappé and Griezmann in future setups, leading to his reintegration.
Evolution of French Football After 2018
The period following the 2018 World Cup allowed both the team and Benzema to develop in different environments, ultimately showing how experience and adaptability contribute to long-term success.
- 2018 World Cup victory with a young, dynamic squad
- Benzema’s club success and eventual return to international football
- Strong performances in the UEFA Nations League after 2020
- Recognition of veteran leadership as a valuable component of team building
- Continued adaptation of tactics to suit evolving player profiles
FAQ
Reader questions
Was Karim Benzema part of the France squad that won the 2018 World Cup?
No, Benzema was not selected for the 2018 World Cup squad, so he did not receive a winner’s medal for that tournament.
Why was Benzema left out of the 2018 World Cup team?
He was omitted due to a combination of form, tactical considerations, and a controversial blackmail allegations that raised concerns within the selection panel.
Did Benzema ever play for France after 2018?
Yes, he returned to the national team years later and became a key player in France’s Nations League victory in 2022.
How did Benzema’s absence affect France’s 2018 campaign?
His absence allowed Deschamps to build a forward line optimized for speed and flexibility, which suited the team’s tactical approach at that time.