Karim Benzema given special authorisation to appear in World Cup Final

Thanks for keeping my starting place warm, Olivier...

Karim Benzema has been granted permission by Real Madrid to join up with the France squad for the World Cup final. Benzema was initially forced to pull out of Didier Deschamps' 26-man squad due to injury but following his return to training with Real Madrid last weekend, has been deemed fit enough to return and play a part. Mundo Deportivo are claiming that the 34-year-old will fly out to Qatar should France beat Morocco, where they will then face Argentina in the final. As it transpired, France were 2-0 victors over the African side. On November 19, the striker took to Instagram to confirm his tough injury news. He wrote:

'I've never given up in my life but tonight I have to think of the team, as I have always done. So reason tells me to give my place to someone who can help our squad have a great World Cup. Thanks for all your messages of support.'

France did not replace Benzema, though, and he remained on squad lists for each game of the tournament.

Olivier Giroud, an able Karim Benzema deputy

The arrival of Karim Benzema would mean that he will be entitled to a winners or runners-up medal, depending on the outcome of the result. Olivier Giroud has led the line perfectly in Benzema's absence and has even become the country's all-time leading goalscorer, replacing Thierry Henry. Giroud is in the hunt to win the golden boot in Qatar and has four goals to his name, the most recent of those coming in the 2-1 quarter final win against England. Alongside Giroud is Kylian Mbappé, who is level with Lionel Messi on five goals in the race for the golden boot, who has lit up the stage in Qatar with his performances. France are aiming to win back-to-back World Cups following their 2018 victory in Russia. They beat Croatia 4-2 in the final in Moscow and will be hoping for a repeat result should they walk out for the final at the Lusail Stadium on Sunday. The win would also coincide with French boss celebrating his 10th year in charge of the national team. Related links:

• Former Miss Croatia reveals marriage proposals from players at World Cup
• Duff and Given combine for the best night of World Cup coverage RTE has had
• Roy Keane pays fitting tribute to Luka Modric before heartbreaking tunnel scenes

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