Benzema scores in fourth Club World Cup to make history

Karim Benzema made Club World Cup history as Saudi champions Al Ittihad won 3-0 against Auckland City at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium on Tuesday to progress to the second round of the tournament.

Benzema, a five-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid, became the first player to score in four editions of the Club World Cup as he bagged Al Ittihad's third goal.

Romarinho and N'Golo Kanté had earlier put the Saudi side in a commanding position with goals in the 29th and 34th minutes.

- Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, more (U.S.)

Making their first appearance in the tournament since their run to the semifinals in 2005, Al Ittihad dominated the game at their home ground to set up a clash against African champions Al Ahly at the same venue on Friday.

The winners will face Copa Libertadores champions Fluminense in the semifinals.

Lars Baron - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

---

The hosts went ahead as Romarinho's shot from the edge of the box bounced off an opposing defender and into the net past keeper Conor Tracey.

France midfielder Kanté doubled the lead five minutes later with a superb strike from a loose ball in the box before compatriot Benzema added a third in the 40th minute to become the first player to score in four different Club World Cups.

Concacaf Champions League winners Leon face Asian champions Urawa Red Diamonds in their second-round tie on Friday. The victor in that fixture will meet Manchester City.