I always find it very difficult to bet against Liverpool in the Champions League.
If you were to ask me on a week-by-week basis about their chances in The Premier League, I'd be quite sceptical because I still don't think they're geared up properly for the Premier League challenge, certainly not to win the title.
But I think in one-off occasions that's Benitez's strength. Against specific opponents where he can plan for perhaps weeks, if not months, in advance when the draw's made he's very good at setting up a team and preparing them for that.
Bearing in mind his links to Real Madrid and the fact that's he continually linked with the job, there is another factor which makes it a fascinating tie.
If you look at Real Madrid under Juande Ramos, you wonder whether the Ramos that was at Tottenham was some sort of impostor because nine straight wins and six first-half goals against Real Betis at the weekend, they really are in majestic form.
Given Liverpool's problems on the domestic front, my expectation would be for Real Madrid to come through that one.
Looking at the field, I think you have to include Barcelona among the favourites, but whoever emerges from Inter and Manchester United could also go an awfully long way. I think whoever emerges from Real Madrid and Liverpool will also go an awfully long way.
Those two ties are going to produce teams who you expect to be the heavyweights along with, of course, Barcelona.