Benzema's 14th-minute goal separated the sides in a match Lyon dominated for long periods to earn their fourth win out of four, and no goals conceded, to reach the last 16 from Group E.

Lyon have never got past the quarterfinals of this competition but their form this year gives notice they may go further next spring.

Lyon, unbeaten this season in all competitions, have only failed to win once -- in a 1-1 draw at home to Toulouse in their second French league match.

Their coach Gerard Houllier was understandably delighted with the run continuing.

"I think we were pretty dynamic tonight but we just couldn't put the chances away that we got.

"However I think 3-1 would have been a fairer reflection of the game."