According to UEFA rules, the Spanish champions were inclined to choose between their new-signing duo, who have both featured in European club competitions this season.

France midfielder Diarra played for Portsmouth in the UEFA Cup, while Dutchman Huntelaar represented Ajax in the same competition.

Real, who already miss influential frontman Ruud van Nistelrooy, will be without Huntelaar when they take on Liverpool in the last 16 phase.

The first leg of the crunch tie will be played at Santiago Bernabeu on February 25th; the return game will be on March 10th.