Cristiano Ronaldo backed by Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti

Ronaldo: given support from manager Ancelotti

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti believes Wednesday's Champions League last-16 first leg against Schalke offers Cristiano Ronaldo a great chance to end his mini goal drought.

Ronaldo has scored 36 goals in 33 competitive games this season but has not found the back of the net since notching twice against Getafe almost exactly a month ago.

The world footballer of the year has had to serve a two-match suspension during that time, but since returning he has drawn blanks in the 4-0 derby defeat to Atletico and Saturday's 2-0 win over Deportivo La Coruna.

Madrid failed to find top form in either of those matches, but Ancelotti expects them to do better against Schalke and is also backing Ronaldo to rediscover his goalscoring touch against a side Real thrashed 9-2 on aggregate at the same stage last season en route to lifting the trophy.

Ancelotti said at his pre-match press conference: "Cristiano had a good game physically against Depor. I think he's improving. He's not got goals but tomorrow I think he has a good opportunity to do it."

The Italian added: "We have to enjoy this game and this moment. We have to get back to playing well, with intensity and motivation.

"I have confidence because I think we had a good game against Deportivo, with some difficulties, and I think it's going to be better tomorrow.

"We are the champions of Europe and we're going to do everything to win it again."

Ancelotti confirmed defender Pepe will play after injury but James Rodriguez, Luka Modric, Sergio Ramos, Sami Khedira and Fabio Coentrao are missing again.