There were skilful displays but a shortage of goals as Toronto FC's first game against European opposition ended in a 0-0 draw with Portuguese giants Benfica on Wednesday at BMO Field.

The friendly match gave both sides a chance to take a look at some of their non-regulars. Benfica went with a mix of first-team regulars and squad players, with Simao and Nuno Gomez among the notable absentees. 

Meanwhile, Toronto's Mo Johnston used the game as an opportunity to give some of his squad players much needed game time, especially since some of Toronto's regulars are likely to be called to their international squads in the coming months.

Johnston felt his players benefited from playing the former European champions. 

"I felt we passed the ball around well and it was good to get the young guys into the game," said Johnston. "It is always going to be a great learning experience to play a side like that. When you see Toronto FC playing Benfica and competing with them it's wonderful." 

It was a slow opening with little to trouble either team's goalkeeper. Benfica was playing a patient game and keeping possession for long spells without creating any chances.

Manu was the main threat for Benfica and almost scored in the 42nd minute when he danced past the Toronto defence only to see Jim Brennan get back to block his shot. 

Toronto's first meaningful attack on goal came seven minutes after half time. Brennan picked out Marvell Wynne with a 50-yard pass. Wynne raced away down the right and played the ball into the path of Danny Dichio, who was unable to beat Jose Moreira in the Benfica goal. 

Moments later, Fabrizio Miccoli escaped the Toronto defence to run clear on goal but was denied by an excellent save from Greg Sutton. Sutton was later replaced by Srdjan Djankovic, who stopped a powerful close-range strike from Manu. 

Benfica had significant backing at BMO Field from Toronto's large Portuguese community. 

"The great support is the reason we decided to come here," said Benfica coach Fernando Santos. "It is a big effort for us to make the journey after our season, but it shows how much we respect and value our supporters in different countries."

New signing Jeff Cunningham wasn't included in the Toronto side, but watched on from the stands and is excited about making the move. 

"It was a great atmosphere. I don't think there is any stadium in the league that has this atmosphere. Hopefully I can score some goals and bring some excitement," he said. 

Cunningham will make his debut against his former club Columbus on Saturday.