Real Madrid vs Liverpool has always been a treat, at least for neutral football fans and Los Blancos supporters. Not so much for the Reds. There have been severa

Encounters between the two European powerhouses over the past five years, with each match delivering exceptional football. Now their paths cross again. Liverpool last played the Spanish club, it wasn’t the best match for them. Well, in terms of quality, the Reds did everything in their power, but perhaps that day was not expected.

However, with another chance to turn things around, they invite the 14-time UCL winner to Anfield for the round of 16 first leg.

It is sure to be an exciting match with excellent tactical skirmishes and mind games between some of the most accomplished players and managers from both sides. However, Liverpool will benefit from the anticipated absence of two of Real Madrid’s key players through injury.

According to AS, Blancos striker Karim Benzema will be sidelined against Osasuna with a bruise sustained against Elche. Carlo Ancelotti hopes to give the French star enough time to heal before the Liverpool game, but it appears the player will struggle to get back on time.

Benzema has struggled with fitness issues both before and after this season’s World Cup. Despite this, Benzema is still in top form and if he goes to Anfield he will be a big threat as usual.

Midfielder Toni Kroos is also worried after missing Real Madrid’s Friday training session with gastroenteritis. According to Relevo, the German has been under strict medical treatment and appears to have lost weight and bulk due to an illness that could keep him out of the first leg against Liverpool.

On the other hand, Liverpool have injured several players including Thiago Alcantara, Luis Diaz and others. It remains to be seen how the circumstances of these players will develop in the coming days.

Real Madrid will face Liverpool on Tuesday