Preview: Shaktar Donetsk v Real Madrid

Image: Marca

The defending La Liga champions, Real Madrid, visit Shakhtar in the penultimate match of the group stage. The first showdown between the two champions ended with a surprising 3-2 victory for the Ukrainians, who incidentally played with a reserve-packed team. Shakhtar can still make it to the quarter-finals, so there is something to fight for both teams as the Spanish capital club try to conquer the group's first place, which at the time of writing is occupied by German Borussia Mönchengladbach, who has a single point down to Real Madrid in second place.

Real Madrid has not had the best start to the season prior to tonight game. Zidane's men suffered an embarrassing defeat to Alaves at home at the weekend, and in addition Hazard - their star man - had to go out with an injury that will keep him out for the next three weeks, and if one is to believe the Spanish media. In addition, stars such as Sergio Ramos, Dani Carvajal and Valverde are not included. However, the La Liga squad are huge favorites for tonight's showdown, and three pints are enough to secure them further promotion. So I believe banking on 'em winning this game or should I say getting back their revenge seems likely in this round.

Pick: Real Madrid to win