Confident Houllier sees Lyon close to qualification

Gerard Houllier said Olympique Lyon's 1-0 victory over Rosenborg on Wednesday was further proof that his side are now genuine Champions League contenders.

The victory in Norway, sealed by a goal from Brazilian defender Cris, moved the ambitious French champions close to qualification for the knockout round with six points from their two Group F games.

"Three years ago, Lyon were held to a (1-1) draw here," Houllier said.

"We have made another step towards the qualification. This is proof that this team is growing and getting more mature."

The draw against Rosenborg three years ago sealed a disappointing exit for the French side, but their 3-0 win over Real Madrid followed by Wednesday's result means they are well on the way to the knockout round.

"Our win was highly deserved," added Houllier. "Any other outcome would have been unfair. Now we have to carry on like this when we host Olympiakos in the next match."

Lyon are still to lose a match this season and Houllier was full of praise for his side.

"Rosenborg pushed hard in the first and the last 10 minutes but I must confess that I was not worried," he said.

"The first half was absolutely dramatic with moves of great class.

"After a match like this one you can't single out anyone in particular. I would only say that our midfield was brilliant in its choices and options on the field."

Lyon reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the last two years but the club's chairman Jean-Michel Aulas has made it clear he is expecting more this season.

The final will take place at the Stade de France and Aulas said he has always dreamed to see his team play there.