Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez insists the Europa League is a worthy trophy to win.

Benfica's striking 65,000-capacity stadium, and the pre-match ritual of an eagle circling the upper stands before descending towards its keeper's outstretched arm, will complete a sense of occasion Benitez is relishing.

"When you see the teams who are still in the Europa League, you realise how strong it is and how difficult it will be to win," said the Liverpool manager.

"That is why I prefer not to talk about going all the way. Benfica are such dangerous opponents, we cannot look any further than this tie."