Real Madrid vs APOEL preview and possible lineups

The current European champions are entering the game on the back of two successive home draws in La Liga.  

'Los Blancos' begin their defense of Europe's elite trophy against APOEL and must earn a convincing win if they are to gain some momentum for the match against Real Sociedad this weekend.

One positive for Zinedine Zidane is that star man Cristiano Ronaldo will be back in action, as his five-game ban for pushing the referee in the Spanish Super Cup is only enforced in domestic competitions.

Real will be without an out-and-out striker for the clash due to Benzema's injury, leaving youngster Mayoral the only notable name in the No 9 position.

A front three of Isco, Bale and Ronaldo, however, is expected to be deployed at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday evening.

Possible lineups:

Real Madrid predicted XI: Kiko Casilla, Carvajal, Nacho, Ramos, Marcelo, Casemiro, Kroos, Modric, Isco, Bale, Ronaldo.

APOEL predicted XI: Waterman, Milanov, Rueda, Carlao, Lago, Vinicius, Morais, Ebecilio, Oar, Alonefitis, Camargo.