La Liga: Xavi Plays Down Barcelona's 11 Points Lead 

Barcelona manager Xavi remains undistracted by a 1-0 win over Villarreal on Sunday night which moves the Catalans 11-point clear of Champions Real Madrid.

He said his side's lead is not an insurmountable distance in a two-horse title race. 

Los Blancos currently sit in second position with 45 points, albeit with one game in hand.

The defending champions were not in action at the weekend because of their participation at the FIFA Club World Cup which they won after beating Al Hilal 5-3 in the final.

Xavi's side took advantage of Madrid's absence as Pedri's first-half goal was enough to give Barcelona their sixth consecutive league win. 

"It is not an insurmountable distance, there are 17 games left," he pointed out in his post-match interview. 

"I'm happy, we have a very good run of results, [it's] extraordinary. 

"We are solid, serious, hardworking. 

"These games are costly and it is one more example that the team is solid."

Los Blancos will return to league action against Elche on Wednesday, February 15.

They face a huge task but will be hoping to emerge victorious so as to reduce Barcelona's lead to 8 points at the summit of the table.