Benfica are level with Barcelona at the interval after spurning a number of chances to seize control at the Nou Camp.
Barca manager Tito Vilanova decided to leave Lionel Messi on the bench and his side struggled to control possession in the early stages.
The visitors need to match Celtic's result to make the Champions League last 16 and missed a gilt-edged chance to go ahead after 15 minutes.
Rodrigo beat the offside trap and broke clear but aimed a curling shot wide from point-blank range.
Benfica continued to create chances but Lima was denied when Jose Pinto turned his effort onto the post.
Ola John was also kept at bay by Pinto just before the break when his low shot was parried from close range.
Barca's only effort of the opening period came from David Villa, who sent a near-post header wide in the closing stages.
Liam Power
