Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema asks Reece James to swap shirts in show of respect for Chelsea defender’s performance

KARIM BENZEMA asked for Reece James’ shirt after Real Madrid’s rollercoaster Champions League win over Chelsea.

Just like the first leg last week, it was the veteran French striker who stole the headlines again.

The 34-year-old produced a brilliant hat-trick at Stamford Bridge six days ago to earn a 3-1 first leg victory.

But Chelsea were in no mood to go down quietly at the Bernabeu as they almost completed Mission Impossible.

They raced into a 3-0 lead to go ahead in the tie on a stunning night of action in the Spanish capital.

But Madrid substitute Rodrygo rescued his side late on to send the game to extra-time.

And unfortunately for James and Chelsea the drama was not over as Benzema headed home six minutes into it to win it 5-4 on aggregate.

England full-back James, despite being booked early, was Chelsea’s star performer throughout the second leg.

And he even produced a superb cross for the unmarked Kai Havertz right at the death only for his team-mate to flash a header wide.

Even though the wing-back will be desperately disappointed to be out of the Champions League, he did manage to go home with one treasured souvenir.

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But it was not him asking for it.

As jubilant scenes greeted the final whistle from home supporters and their side, the matchwinner only had eyes for one thing… James’ shirt.

Benzema walked over to the 22-year-old and handed him his jersey in what appeared to be a sign of respect.

And he managed to get James’ in return as the star seemingly earned the hotshot forward’s respect from the clash.