Real Madrid and Liverpool face-off in a UEFA Champions League match up of clubs who are in 2nd place of their respective domestic leagues. It is a partial homecoming for Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez as he was in charge of the Real Madrid youth teams for almost 10 years during the 1980's and 1990's.
Real Madrid have not had a bad domestic season at all. Their only problem has been that Barcelona have been unstoppable. Therefore, while they are still very much alive in the hunt for the La Liga title, they have an even better chance of claiming the trophy. The side managed by former Tottenham Hotspur boss Juande Ramos will be in very high spirits following 6-1 win over the weekend against Real Betis which coupled with a Barcelona loss sees them just 7 points out of first place.
The Reds are coming off of a weekend home fixture to Manchester City at Anfield Road. Their one injury concern coming into the match away to Real Madrid is the captain Steven Gerrard who is doubtful. Gerrard is also Liverpool's top scorer in the competition this season with 5 goals.
Live UEFA Champions League
Real Madrid v Liverpool
Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, kick off 1945 hours
