Crisis-hit Real Madrid in need of Basel bounceback

Having finally ended a 12-year wait to land its 10th European Cup, few imagined Real Madrid would start its defense of the Champions League in a state of crisis.

Less than four months after beating city rival Atletico Madrid 4-1 after extra time in the final in Lisbon, Real is in need of a strong response when Swiss champion Basel visits the Spanish capital on Tuesday after Atletico inflicted its second consecutive league defeat with a 2-1 victory in Saturday's derby.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti bemoaned afterwards that his side has not yet found the right balance following the sales of key midfielders Angel di Maria and Xabi Alonso late in the transfer window.