Madrid - Karim Benzema will miss the February 16 clash between Real Madrid and Olympique Lyon, his former club, Real announced on Tuesday. The French forward has torn the abductor muscle in his left leg, and will be out of action for at least a week.
Benzema, 22, suffered the injury in Saturday's 3-0 home win against Espanyol, a result which leaves Real five points behind leaders Barcelona.
He joined Real from Lyon in July 2009 for around 35 million euros (47.83 million dollars), as part of the record-breaking spending spree of profligate club president Florentino Perez.
Benzema struggled to adapt to Spain in autumn and spent more time on the subs' bench than on the field. However, the injury suffered by Argentine Gonzalo Higuain a month ago opened the door for him and he has looked impressive.
He scored two goals in the January 30 3-1 win away to Deportivo Coruna, and has now netted seven times in La Liga.
