When Real Madrid won the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie against Liverpool by a 5-2 scoreline, that too away at Anfield, the hope was that it would prove to be the launching pad for a great run of form. Reality has proven to be exactly the opposite, as Carlo Ancelotti’s side have not won a game since.
They lost to Barcelona in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi finals at Santiago Bernabeu. And in La Liga, they drew to Atletico Madrid and Real Betis. Now, all three were tough games, but on each occasion, Real Madrid were the favourites on paper.
Going into the match against Liverpool, they will once again be the heavy favourites to go through. But amidst their poor run of form, and having seen Liverpool defeat Manchester United 7-0 recently, Real Madrid cannot afford to think that the tie is a forgone conclusion.
Injuries have been a problem for them lately as well. There is some good news on that front though. Although Karim Benzema was left out of the squad to face Espanyol, he will be fit enough to feature against Liverpool.
Real Madrid boost for match against Liverpool confirmed by Carlo Ancelotti
As reported by MARCA, Ancelotti said about Benzema:
"“He’s had a blow to his ankle and it’s swollen. He has started training today in singles and will be available for the match against Liverpool.”"
Benzema was instrumental in Real Madrid’s win against Liverpool in the first leg. He scored twice on that night and got a standing ovation from the Anfield crowd when he was substituted off.
Thus, him being available to play against Liverpool is a major boost for Real Madrid to say the very least. At the same time, one cannot overlook that Benzema has looked completely off colour in the previous three games and faced heavy criticism. He is the type of player who comes alive in the Champions League though, and hopefully, he will come good in the second leg as well.