MADRID (AP):

Few teams can be as happy as Real Madrid and Liverpool that the Champions League is finally starting.

For defending champions Madrid, it's a chance for some respite after back-to-back losses in the Spanish league that have led to fans jeering the team.

For Liverpool, it's a return - after five years away - to a competition the club has won five times and regard as its natural habitat.

Madrid open the defence of the trophy at home to FC Basel and Liverpool host Ludogorets Razgrad, one of two newcomers to the Champions League this season.

MADRID SEEK RESPITE

Madrid spent the off-season basking in becoming European champions for a record-extending 10th time, after beating Atletico Madrid 4-1 after extra time in May.

But then the new season started - and the problems did, too.

Madrid lost to Atletico in the Spanish Super Cup last month. Carlo Ancelotti's side then collapsed 4-2 at Real Sociedad in the league and followed it up with a 2-1 loss to Atletico at home on Saturday.

Angry fans are already showing their displeasure and have especially targeted goalkeeper Iker Casillas, who has been under increasing pressure since his poor performances for Spain at the World Cup in Brazil.

Madrid's high-profile signings, James Rodriguez and Toni Kroos, have also been disappointing, causing some to lament the exit of established midfielders Xabi Alonso and Angel Di Maria during the off-season.