Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti believes that Basel are performing better than Champions League rivals Liverpool.

Los Blancos made sure of top spot in Group B with a hard-fought victory over the Swiss side, but the Italian is adamant that the RotBlau has cause for optimism when they visit Anfield next month.

Ancelotti is quoted by UEFA.com as saying: "We have not played as we always do, a little slower, but good defending and we were concentrated. The most important thing was the victory.

"Basel played with a lot of heart and has appeared with another system. They showed an intense game and could therefore put us under pressure in the second half.

"I think Basel is currently better than Liverpool. I see a small advantage for Basel for the last round [of matches]."

Basel now know that a draw against Liverpool at Anfield next month will be enough to knock the Merseysiders out of the competition.