Darren Fletcher admits Manchester United want to win their Champions League group.
Victory over Benfica at Old Trafford on Tuesday night would mean, at worst, Sir Alex Ferguson's men would require a point from their last-day encounter with Basle to reach the last 16.
But Fletcher says: "You do want to finish top.
"First and foremost you look to qualify for the knockout stages but we saw Arsenal finish second last season and end up with Barcelona in the first knockout round.
"Although people say you have to beat these teams if you want to win the competition, it is good to avoid them until later on.
"It also give you little perks like having the second leg at home.
"There are a few aspects to topping the group which benefit you in the long run."