- Basel sit second in group B, 6 points behind Wednesday's opponents, and they know a positive result will go a long way to securing a place in the last-16 of the Champions League. The Swiss side succumbed to a 5-1 defeat to Real Madrid when the two teams met at the Bernabeu.
- Madrid have won each of their 4 group games and a positive result will ensure they progress to the knockout stages as group winners. Basel, though, won't make things easy for the European champions – Paulo Sousa's side have won both of their home games in the competition and are unbeaten in their last 8 competitive matches at St. Jakob-Park.
- This will be tough for Madrid, but they are in irresistible form at present and should secure victory in this one.
- Marco Streller and Ivan Ivanov will both miss out for the hosts here.
- Breel Embolo is expected to spearhead the attack in Streller's absence.
- Giovanni Sio and Taulant Xhaka are both doubts, though the latter is expected to feature.
- Jese and Luka Modric are Carlo Ancelotti's only main injury concerns for the trip Basel.
- The Italian, however, is sweating on the fitness of Asier Illarramendi.
- Isco is expected to start in midfield in Modric's absence.
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