Rivaldo rates Liverpool as world-beaters

As Barcelona's Brazilian striker prepared for tonight's Champions League showdown at Anfield, he compared Liverpool's development under Houllier to the way Argentina have blossomed into favourites for next summer's World Cup.

The former European and World Footballer of the Year saluted a formula that produced five trophies in nine months earlier this year and told Sportsmail: 'Liverpool today are one of the best sides in the world. If we beat them, we can say we've beaten one of the top three or four teams around. Liverpool at club level remind me of Argentina at national level. They play well together because they've grown up and matured together. And, of course, they are brimming with talent.'

Rivaldo maintained that Barcelona can avenge last season's UEFA Cup semi-final defeat, adding: 'We are on the same level. We have everything we need to get a result at Anfield.'

Striker Patrick Kluivert said: 'I want revenge for that defeat. I want to make them feel exactly how they made us feel last year.

'Liverpool are a very powerful side, largely unchanged from last season. They can play almost with their eyes closed, they know each other so well. We need to respect them but I believe they also think we're no pushovers.'

Defender Francesco Coco cited Michael Owen as the biggest threat, saying: 'Without a doubt, Liverpool are the team to beat in this group. They are a compact side blessed with the talent and class of Owen. I must have said it a thousand times: Owen is the best and most dangerous striker in the world and has been for months.'