Barcelona midfielder, Xavi, was pleased with his side's tough 1-0 win over Espanyol on Saturday.

The visitors frustrated the Nou Camp faithful with their persistent fouling which disrupted the flow of the game.

Speaking to Sport after the match, Xavi said: "They wanted to spoil our rhythm by fouling.

"It was an ugly game that, fortunately, we won."

He was also adamant that the spot-kick which Zlatan Ibrahimovic converted to give the home side three points was a definite penalty.

Xavi explained: "Baena fouled me and stopped me from challenging for the ball."

"He admitted it on the pitch. They defender very well, but did not do anything in attack."

Pep Guardiola's men will now take a break from La Liga action as they are set to challenge for the FIFA Club World Cup crown in Abu Dhabi this week.