Footage has emerged showing Karim Benzema was targeted with a laser before scoring his remarkable Panenka penalty during Tuesday night’s thrilling Champions League clash between Manchester City and Real Madrid.City ran out 4-3 winners after one of the most enthralling games of the 2021-22 season.Kevin De Bruyne opened the scoring after just two minutes before Gabriel Jesus doubled City’s advantage.However, the in-form Benzema netted his 40th goal of the campaign with a wonderful first-time finish to make it 2-1 at the break.Phil Foden restored the hosts’ two-goal advantage shortly after half-time with a rare headed goal, only for Madrid’s Vinicius Jr to score a sensational solo goal moments later.Bernardo Silva made it 4-2 in the 74th minute with a strike that caught Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois by surprise, but Benzema’s stunning penalty sets up a mouth-watering semi-final second leg at the Bernabeu next week.Benzema PanenkaMANCHESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 26: Karim Benzema of Real Madrid scores their side's third goal from the penalty spot during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final Leg One match between Manchester City and Real Madrid at Etihad Stadium on April 26, 2022 in Manchester, England. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Karim Benzema targeted with laser before Panenka penalty

Benzema was the coolest person inside the Etihad Stadium as he stepped up to take his 82nd-minute spot-kick.

As the Frenchman prepared to take his penalty, video footage shows a green laser was shone towards his face.

Watch it here:

The sight of footballers having lasers shone at them has, unfortunately, become an increasingly common sight in top level football.

Just last month, for example, Mohamed Salah and his Egypt teammates were targeted with green lasers shone from the stands during a crucial 2022 World Cup qualifier against Senegal.

However, Benzema was unfazed and proceeded to score one of the coldest Panenka penalties of all time.

The 34-year-old has nerves of steel and silenced the Etihad with a spot-kick that will be discussed for many years to come.

Will Karim Benzema win the 2022 Ballon d'Or?

Benzema is now this season’s top scorer in the Champions League with 14 goals and will be the overwhelming favourite to win the 2022 Ballon d’Or award if he can inspire his team to a place in next month’s final.

benzema ballon d'or

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 26: Karim Benzema of Real Madrid celebrates after scoring their side's third goal from the penalty spot during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final Leg One match between Manchester City and Real Madrid at Etihad Stadium on April 26, 2022 in Manchester, England. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)