Barcelona kept tabs on La Liga leaders Real Madrid and moved above Atletico Madrid into third place with a crucial 3-1 win over Deportivo Alaves.
Robert Lewandowski gave Xavi’s side the lead after keeping the home side at bay following a fast and threatening start.
Illkay Gundogan produced an exquisite finish to double the visitors’ lead four minutes into the second half, but two minutes later Alves reduced the deficit through Samuel Omorodion.
Barcelona restored their lead through substitute Vitor Roque, who had an action-packed cameo off the bench.
After the Brazilian gave Barcelona a two-goal advantage, he was booked twice in quick succession and headed back down the tunnel just 13 minutes after his introduction.
Alaves chased the game in the final 20 minutes, but Barcelona kept their composure to seal a vital three points.
