Torres - Reds will beat Real

Liverpool striker expects European progression

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 27th December 2008

Torres - Reds will beat Real

Torres: In confident mood

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Fernando Torres believes Liverpool will make light work of Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.

The Reds have been paired against the Spanish giants in the last 16 of Europe's premier club competition.

Having reached the semi-finals of last season's tournament, before falling to Chelsea, Torres is determined to help Rafa Benitez's side go one better this time around.

The first step on the road to achieving that goal will be disposing of reigning Primera Liga champions Real.

While the Spaniards boast a European record which can eclipse even Liverpool's, Torres is confident that a place in the quarter-finals will be heading to Anfield.

"We all realise that it is going to be a tough tie against Real Madrid," he wrote on his personal website.

"I don't like talking about a possible favourite, but I am sure that we are going to qualify for the next round."

Unbelievable

Torres has seen his 2008/09 campaign blighted by injury but, having adapted to life in England with ease following his arrival from Atletico Madrid last summer and tasted Euro 2008 success with Spain this year, he admits that he will be disappointed to see the back of the last 12 months.

"I'm a bit sad to be coming to the end of this year," he wrote.

"The first nine months were unbelievable and at the end, even though I could not play regularly because of injury, there was recognition in the form of awards and nominations, like the PFA's, L'Equipe and being a finalist in the FIFA World Player award.

"I have said before that this has been my best year as a professional footballer.

"I adapted to Liverpool far quicker than expected, and to end the 2007-08 season winning Euro 2008 was a perfect finish.

"I hope that at the end of 2009 we can say the same celebrating another title.

"I hope to avoid injuries and that we win the Premier League title; it is the dream of every 'Red' - fans, coaching staff and players.

"And it would be great to sign off the season lifting the Confederations Cup with Spain in South Africa."