The 2022/23 season should mark the beginning of a big rivalry between Robert Lewandowski and Karim Benzema.
Who turns out to be a better striker if we compare their stats?
What does this tell us? Benzema is a bit better than Lewandowski at scoring from difficult positions. The Frenchman massively overperforms his xG stats, unlike Lewandowski who scores just a bit more goals than he should.
Shooting
Lewandowski is a better – and a more active – shooter than Benzema.
However, Karim is a bit more clinical when it comes to shots on target.
Areas covered
Lewandowski’s 2021/22 heat map in Bundesliga
Benzema’s 2021/22 heat map in LaLiga
Already by looking at these maps, one can say Benzema does more work in the buildup than the Polish striker.
That is true – Lewandowski is a more classic inside-the-box forward; here is another stat to prove it 👇
Passing
Even though Lewandowski made a few more appearances in the Bundesliga than Benzema in La Liga last season, he is still way behind the Frenchman in the most passing stats.
Defensive actions
Lewandowski is not a lazy striker who just waits for the ball to come to his feet. He pressures the opposition a lot and is active defensively.
The 33-year-old beats Benzema in pressures, tackles, interceptions, recoveries and even blocks.
What else Lewandowski is better than Benzema at?
At fouls drawn (44 against 12) – although Benzema is generally better at dribbling – and winning aerials (49% against 30%).
Conclusion
Lewandowski is currently a better goalscorer and a shooter while Benzema is a bit more helpful in the build-up, proving how complete he is.
Let’s just sit and enjoy the two strikers in their prime, hoping that Lewandowski will carry his crazy goalscoring form to La Liga.