FIFA World Cup Player of the Day: Excellent Karim Benzema

France striker Karim Benzema became joint top scorer with his third goal of the tournament, stabbing home neatly from substitute Paul Pogba's sublime pass.

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France coach Didier Deschamps reserved special praise for Karim Benzema on Friday after the striker was again at the heart of a fine attacking display in a 5-2 World Cup Group E mauling of Switzerland.

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Benzema, who struck twice and came close to a hat-trick in France's opening victory over Honduras, again caused havoc against the Swiss at Salvador's Fonte Nova arena, scoring once and setting up another two.

The excellent striker seems to be enjoying this World Cup. Benzema was everywhere against Switzerland, combining with the full-backs, linking play, providing assists and scoring goals.

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Although he did miss a first-half penalty, his movement and direct running were a constant problem for Switzerland, who failed to find a way to contain him.

The missed penalty aside, Benzema almost took his tally in Brazil to four goals in two games, but a beautiful last-minute strike was ruled out because the referee had blown his final whistle.

"Benzema confirmed that he is in great shape, he is very well physically, he is a very joyful person and a top-notch player," France coach Didier Deschamps said of the 26-year-old frontman.