Barcelona defender Dani Alves has praised the resilience of Sevilla after his side had to come from a goal behind to win 2-1 on Saturday.
Alberto Botia put the visitors in front just ahead of half-time but David Villa and Lionel Messi struck before the hour mark to help the Blaugrana extend their lead at the top the table to 15 points over Atlético Madrid.
Speaking after the game, Alves revealed that he was satisfied with the Catalans’ reaction to going behind and also praised the visitors’ resolve.
“It was a strange match especially because of how cold it was, but in the end we managed to win,” the 29-year-old was quoted by Mundo Deportivo.
“Sevilla forced us to work hard to win the three points. They are not just any team, they are great rivals and have a lot of quality.”
The Brazilian, who played 186 times for Sevilla before moving to Barcelona in 2008, was quick to praise los Rojiblancos for their effort but was also critical when asked about his side going into half-time 1-0 down.
He added: “We have to improve in this regard.
“But we can concede goals if we win. This is a game and we have to remember that other teams are also playing. We reacted well and we deserved the win.
“It’s an important week, and that’s how we’re approaching it. These are the types of matches that we like to play.”
Barça, who have now amassed 68 points from their 25 league games this season, take on rivals Real Madrid in the semi-final of the Copa del Rey on Tuesday.
