Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is convinced they can see off Europa League opponents Benfica tonight.

Benitez is confident his side can avenge the 2006 Champions League defeat to Benfica, when a 1-0 loss in Portugal was followed by a 2-0 reversal at Anfield.

"The situation is totally different," Benitez told liverpoolfc.tv. "We've scored an away goal and we've got a much better squad now, so hopefully we can manage in a better way.

"They have balance. They can attack and defend well and they have confidence, so it'll be tough for us.

"But we are doing well at home, especially in the last games. So we know Benfica are a good team but we have confidence we can beat them.

"It's an opportunity we have to win silverware. It'll be important for all the people here, the fans and the club. So we'll try to do our best."

Benitez is hoping for a trademark European night atmosphere at Anfield.

"I hope so," he said. "The fans know backing the team is the biggest way to get a result, so they will be behind the players."