Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is remaining cautious of a dangerous Benfica outfit when the sides clash at Estadio Da Luz in the Europa League tonight.

The Reds will go into the tie as slight favourites but Benitez knows just how good the Lisbon-based club can be in competitions such as this one.

"They are top of their table, 10 points above Porto and are on fire," he said.

"We know they are a dangerous team with a good stadium, where the fans are always behind them.

"They have good players, a new manager who's pushing them, quality, pace and ability. Also, they don't concede many - only 12 goals this season - and have scored 60, so they have the balance.

"Maybe there is a difference between the Champions and Europa Leagues at the start of the season but, when you see the teams left in this now, it is very strong."