Xabi: Kabak performance key to Liverpool clash with Real Madrid

Former Real Madrid and Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso believes Ozan Kabak's performance could decide this week's first-leg Champions League quarterfinal.

Real Sociedad B coach Xabi says Kabak's clash with Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema will be decisive.

He told the Mirror: "Benzema has shown this season he is still one of the best strikers in Europe.

"He scores goals on big occasions and he will be the biggest threat for Madrid.

"This is where Liverpool will wish Van Dijk was fit – but Kabak will need to step up and show he is ready for these big games."

Xabi also commented on the battle between Real ace Toni Kroos and Liverpool's Fabinho.

He added: "Kroos is another player who knows exactly what it takes to win The Champions League and is one of the most successful players in the competition.

"He again is very creative – and Fabinho will play a very important rule in trying to break down the creativity of Kroos and the creativity of Madrid's midfield."