Former Spain striker Raul has expressed his belief that Real Madrid will find Schalke 04 to be a tough opponent in the last 16 of the Champions League.

However, the New York Cosmos forward, who has played for both clubs, did admit that Los Blancos are the favourites.

"On paper it looks easy for Madrid," Raul told Kicker. "But they must overcome everything on the pitch. Schalke will give everything to spoil the party."

"For sure Schalke will not be such pushovers again."

The two teams met at this stage of the Champions League last season, with Real Madrid, who went on to win the competition, running out 9-2 winners on aggregate.