Reds turn to Europe, but Real ready to rock

PARIS: Liverpool's reputation for turning on the style in Europe today faces the acid test when they face on-form Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium.

On a night that will notably see Liverpool's domestic rivals Chelsea host Juventus, Real are looking good to strike the first blow in a two-leg encounter that gives the winners passage to the Champions League quarterfinals.

A 6-1 hammering of Real Betis on Saturday, complete with a brace apiece from Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Raul moved Real to within seven points of leaders Barcelona, who suffered a shock 2-1 derby defeat against Espanyol.