Liverpool vs Real Madrid: Champions League video preview

Video: Simon Rice and Jack de Menezes look ahead to Liverpool's crucial clash against Champions League holders Real Madrid

Emre Can, Mario Balotelli, Raheem Sterling and Philippe Coutinho of Liverpool warm up during a training session ahead of the match between Liverpool and Real Madrid. (Alex Livesey | Getty Images)

The Independent previews Liverpool's Champions League tie against Real Madrid, with the Reds hoping to find their form from last season to ensure a much-needed and famous win against Real Madrid.

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Tonight's game is one of the stand out ties in the competition this week with the Reds - who have won the competition five times - taking on the Spaniards, who clinched their tenth title last season.

The Reds are not going into the tournament in the best shape. Brendan Rodgers' side were lucky to beat QPR at the weekend and they have not fared better in the Champions League either, with a scrappy last-minute win against Ludogorets Razgrad and an away loss to FC Basel.

Failure to pick up any points in their two ties against Real and Liverpool could see their chances of progressing vanish as Basel have back-to-back games against Ludogorets, who they should beat comfortably. Rodgers will be hoping that Mario Balotellli can find his form after struggling in the league, although his one goal so far this season did come in the Champions League.

The Champions League holders are without Gareth Bale, but they will still have players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Isco. While Balotelli falters, Ronaldo has 20 goals for club and country in 13 games so far this season.