Thegoalmac understands Benzema, who played no part in Madrid's 3-1 win over Malaga on Saturday, failed to prove his fitness in a training session on Monday due to an issue with the striker's right knee.
The France international's absence leaves Madrid with only Ballon d'Or holder Cristiano Ronaldo fit of Carlo Ancelotti's usual attacking trio.
Bale lasted only five minutes against Malaga before being forced off with a calf injury which the European champions confirmed was not merely a knock on Monday.
Benzema and Bale's absences raise question marks about who will start in attack alongside Ronaldo, with Isco and Javier Hernandez expected to start with the Portuguese star.
Attack is not the only area that will have Blancos fans fearing for their European security as Luka Modric was ruled out for up to six weeks with a sprained ligament in his knee.
Asier Illarramendi and Lucas Silva are options for Santiago Bernabeu boss Ancelotti, who is gunning for his fourth Champions League crown this season.
Brazilian left-back Marcelo's suspension for the Madrid derby game will also test the team's squad depth as they look to beat Atletico for the first time (at the eighth attempt) since lasts season's Champions League final.
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