Liverpool managed to secure a vital away goal at the Santiago Bernabeu in their Champions League clash against Real Madrid, but manager Rafa Benitez will be more worried about the injury sustained by star striker Fernando Torres during the game.

The game, which was billed as the main blockbuster in this round of Champions League, started off on a sedate pace. Real Madrid were unbeaten this year and Benitez was aware of this fact as he packed his defence tightly and placed highly combative midfielders in the hope that they could capitalize on the break.

Raul had an early chance on the turn as he collected Arjen Robben's pass, but Jose Reina was alert enough to spoil his bid. Brazilian Marcelo also had a fine chance, but was unable to beat Reina. Gonzalo Higuain then appeared to break free, but skipper Jamie Carragher made a fine tackle to break that move.

Iker Casillas was forced to palm away a Torres shot after the Spanish midfielder had latched onto a long clearance from Reina. Guti came on for Marcelo at the break, but he had minimal impact on the game, which was now being defensively controlled by the Reds.

A dipping drive from Robben on 70 minutes tested Reina, who kept the scores level by tipping it over. Kuyt was then fouled by Gabriel Heinze, which resulted in a free-kick. Fabio Aurelio curled in a beautiful ball and Yossi Benayoun finally broke the deadlock with a fine header.

Though Real tried their best, they were unable to find the all-important equalizer, which means Liverpool hold the advantage in the second leg to be played at Anfield.