Schalke 04 defender Benedikt Howedes has insisted that his side can overcome Real Madrid in the last-16 stage of the Champions League.

The two teams, who were drawn together on Monday afternoon, clashed at the same stage of the competition last season, with Real Madrid emerging 9-2 aggregate winners.

However, Howedes is certain that his team will put on a stronger showing this time around.

"We know how we lost badly last year. Real are one of the best teams in the world. But even these teams are beatable," Howedes told reporters.

"We will do our best to challenge the holders."

Real Madrid won their 10th European crown last season.