Basel defender Walter Samuel believes that his team can overcome Real Madrid in tonight's Champions League clash at the Bernabeu.

The Spanish side will enter the match short of confidence following a disappointing start to the season, which has seen them lose two of their first three league games.

Samuel, who joined Basel in the summer after nine seasons with Inter Milan, has also claimed that he is not surprised by the criticism aimed at Los Blancos.

"The criticism they have received doesn't surprise me because, apart from the fact they are European Champions, they are always under pressure. So it's no wonder I'm not surprised," he told reporters at a press conference.

"However, we are ready and looking forward to this match, because getting a good result and taking points from here would be very important."

Samuel, 36, is expected to start at the heart of Basel's defence.