Liverpool vs Real Madrid: Starting XIs for Champions League clash confirmed

Real Madrid make two changes from the side that beat Osasuna at the weekend, with Dani Carvajal and Karim Benzema coming in for Nacho and Dani Ceballos.

Benzema has started just two of Real’s last five matches, but he scored three goals in that time, including one in the victory over Al Hilal in the Club World Cup final.

The striker’s return means Rodrygo likely moves to the right wing, while Valverde looks set to take a place in midfield.

Jurgen Klopp makes the decision to name an unchanged side following Saturday’s impressive 2-0 win at Newcastle.

The XI includes Darwin Nunez, who is fit enough to start despite suffering a knock to his shoulder at St James’ Park.

Stefan Bajcetic retains his place in midfield in what is his first Champions League start.

Liverpool team news

Team to play Real Madrid: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Gomez, Van Dijk, Robertson; Henderson, Fabinho, Bajcetic; Salah, Nunez, Gakpo.

Subs: Adrian, Kelleher, Milner, Keita, Firmino, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Jones, Elliott, Jota, Tsimikas, Carvalho, Matip.

Real Madrid team news

Team to play Liverpool: Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Rudiger, Alaba; Camavinga, Modric, Valverde, Rodrygo; Benzema, Vinicius.

Substitutes: Lunin, Vallejo, Nacho, Hazard, Kroos, Asensio, Odriozola, Vazquez, Ceballos, Mario Martin, Arribas, Alvaro.