Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is adamant they'll face Real Madrid tonight on an equal footing.
The Reds host the first-leg of the round 16 tie.
In his match programme notes, Klopp wrote: "Real Madrid will have no interest in helping us on this path, though. They have their own objectives for this season and, given their history, one of them will undoubtedly be doing everything in their power to win the Champions League.
"Like us, this is a competition that means an incredible amount to them, and I could not be more aware that Carlo Ancelotti, his staff, players and everyone associated with Real will come to Liverpool with an expectation that their own European road has further to run.
"For the avoidance of doubt, this is something that I say out of total respect. Part of Real's greatness comes from the confidence that they have in themselves. It is in their DNA and it is one of the reasons why they have won 14 European Cups.
"Rather than be burdened by their history, they are empowered by it. So I welcome Carlo and his staff as rivals in this tie but also with utmost respect for what they have achieved and what they continue to achieve.
"The good thing is, as much as it has been said that we could not have asked for a tougher opponent, I am sure we would not have been the team at the top of everyone's list when the draw for the last 16 was made."