Real Madrid and Bayern Munich return to the Champions League on Tuesday in crisis mode after the latest setbacks in their domestic leagues.
A look at the four groups on Tuesday.
Group E
Bayern seems to be a shadow of its former self after twice letting a two-goal lead slip against Duesseldorf. Kovac’s position is under threat unless he can coax the side into the kind of performances it delivered at the start of the season.
Bayern president Uli Hoeness said on Saturday that club officials would sit down after Benfica’s visit to see “how things should continue.” Bayern, which leads with 10 points from four games, would top the group with a win over Benfica if Ajax, on eight points, fails to beat AEK Athens.
Group F
Manchester City can qualify for the knockout stage with a draw in Lyon.
Hoffenheim hosts Shakhtar Donetsk in the other group game.
Group G
Madrid’s early season troubles are back after the demoralising loss to Eibar. The team’s attack is under scrutiny, while its defence is among the worst in Spain. Madrid has already conceded 19 goals in 13 Spanish league matches. Madrid and Roma are level on nine points and seem assured of progress from Group G. The Italian club will be through with a draw, or if CSKA Moscow fails to beat Plzen in the earlier group game.
Group H
Group leader Juventus hosts Valencia and will be through with a draw or if Manchester United loses to Young Boys. United heads into the game in second place in the group, two points behind Juve and two clear of Valencia.