How Real Madrid could line up against Roma

Real Madrid begin the defence of their Champions League crown with a home match against last season's semi-finalists Roma on Wednesday evening.

Los Blancos are aiming to win the trophy for a fourth campaign in a row, and a fifth time in six years, having completely dominated the European landscape in recent times.

Following the summer departures of boss Zinedine Zidane and star man Cristiano Ronaldo, however, Madrid are now embarking on a new era as they prepare for the visit of Roma.

Ahead of the Group G opener, Sports Mole looks at how the reigning European champions could line up.

Julen Lopetegui surprisingly withdrew Gareth Bale and Luka Modric when Madrid were chasing a goal in their 1-1 draw with Athletic Bilbao at the weekend, with one eye very much on this midweek tussle.

Both men are expected to start against Roma, while Casemiro and Isco - benched for the trip to San Mames - are also fresh and ready to go.

Should Marco Asensio get the nod on the left of Madrid's front three, however, it will likely mean Isco again settling for a place among the subs, assuming an in-form Karim Benzema - five goals in five games for the Frenchman this term - retains his spot through the middle.

Casemiro's return will lead to Dani Ceballos dropping out of the side, meanwhile, but arguably the biggest decision for Lopetegui to make comes in goal.

Thibaut Courtois has started Los Blancos' last two games either side of the international break, but Keylor Navas may be given the nod on European nights, having played a big part in his side's recent continental success.

> Click here to see how Roma could line up for this fixture