Real Madrid’s French striker Karim Benzema is a name familiar with goals and the dread of many Center Backs in the game, including Nigeria’s Kenneth Omeruo.

Omeruo, 26, has won the AFCON and featured in two world cup tournaments, famously going toe to toe with Argentine Superstar Lionel Messi.

But, in a recent interview with Spanish outlet AS, the Nigerian regards Benzema as the best player he’s faced in his career.

Here’s the excerpt from the interview:

As for the best player he has ever faced? “Benzema,” he says without a second thought. “It’s not only because he is a good goalscorer, but he works hard and he is difficult to mark because of his positioning.”