Real Madrid will play Schalke 04 in the Champions League on Tuesday night from the Bernabeu in Madrid. This game is a dead rubber considering Real's massive win in the first leg, but despite that Real have confirmed they will put Cristiano Ronaldo out to start the game.
Today's big game starts at 7.45 p.m. GMT (3.45 p.m. ET) and can be watched online through live stream – free for subscribers – via the link provided below.
Many had expected Ronaldo to be rested for today's game after Real destroyed the German side 6-1 in the first leg in Germany. However, Real boss, Carlo Ancelotti, has confirmed that Ronaldo is scheduled to start the tie – even though the El Clasico game against rivals Barcelona takes place this weekend as well.
One eye must be on the game against Barcelona this Sunday – with Real in first place and Barcelona lagging behind in third in the Spanish La Liga, the pressure is on Barcelona to get the win to drag themselves back into the title race.
Despite that, Real are indicating they know they cannot take their foot off the gas completely here tonight against Schalke.
"Playing well against Schalke is the best way to prepare for the Clasico," said Ancelotti. "We are excited and keen to play well because it is a Champions League match and we must maintain the team's good form."
Real though will be without France striker Karim Benzema, who suffered a thigh injury in Saturday's 1-0 win against Malaga.
"He can't play tomorrow, but he is recovering and we are confident that he will be back for Sunday," said Ancelotti, according to BBC Sport.
Meanwhile, Schalke are determined to put on a good performance and play for pride despite most believing tonight will just be a formality of Real making it through to the quarter finals following their 6-1 first leg win.
The game can be watched online by clicking here.
