Real Madrid coach Carlos Queiroz was satisfied to have seen his side clinch first place in their group with a minimum of fuss on Tuesday, even if the 1-1 draw against Porto was a drab affair.
"Our main objective was to finish top and we did just that," Queiroz told a news conference after a Champions League Group F game played in torrential rain. "It was a comfortable, relatively relaxed game for us."
With Porto needing an improbable three-goal victory to displace Real from top spot in Group F, Queiroz decided to give many of his first choice line-up, including skipper Raul and midfielder David Beckham, a rest.
But the Spanish champions still managed to take the lead after just nine minutes when Argentine midfielder Santiago Solari finished off a neat passing move with a fine angled shot.
Although Porto levelled before the break when Derlei Silva smashed home from the penalty spot after fellow forward Deco had been brought down by Michel Salgado, the game petered out into a tame draw in the second half.
"Both teams were keen to play well," Queiroz said. "But we realised early on that the conditions would not allow it. The players lost enthusiasm and motivation and so we had to opt for a practical approach."
Tuesday's result guarantees unbeaten Real a second-round tie against one of the group runners-up.
"We have no preferences as to who we play," he said. "We will just wait for the draw and hope to play well whoever we get."
Porto coach Jose Mourinho said he was delighted with the performance of his players, praising them for their positive approach.
"We were playing for the win out there and went on the attack from the start, whereas they were content to wait for their opportunity and play on the break.
"I was very pleased with the team's performance and with the attitude of the players. Now we will just have to wait to see who we will get in the draw.
"It would be great to play in England, even though Manchester United and Chelsea are two very powerful teams."
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