Barcelona coach Xavi says victory at Valencia was deserved.

Robert Lewandowski struck the only goal of the game late in stoppage time to seal the three points after what had been a frustrating match for Barça.

"It was a really important win, especially with how it arrived in the last second," Xavi said.

"We never stopped believing. We played with some anxiety, the elimination from the Champions League hit us hard. We tried to disconnect, but it is difficult.

"We did not take good decisions. When we had to pass, we shot. And when we had to shoot, we passed. It was down to anxiety.

"An important win not for me, but for the team. The team deserved it because they put in a huge effort. They worked so hard to win the game and got their compensation late on, even though we deserved it earlier.

"We sleep top of the league tonight. We want to keep the pressure on Real Madrid, who have a game in hand."