Real Madrid 0-3 Barcelona Spoke of the turnaround since the Supercopa

Barcelona increased their gap over Real Madrid by surviving some early pressure in Saturday's Clasico and by going on to record a 3-0 victory, one which coach Ernesto Valverde was understandably thrilled about.

It was a very different outcome from the Supercopa de Espana in August, when the Blaugrana were beaten 5-1 on aggregate, and Valverde explained that things can change quickly in the world of football.

"In one particular moment one of these two teams can be above the other, but we're both very even," the coach said after the match.

"That is a lesson for all.

"In pre-season they played very well and were better, while we were today.

"There are lots of ups and downs in football.

"It could also turn against us again."

Asked to discuss the title race and the 14-point lead over Real Madrid, Valverde refused to think about the end of the season.

"This is not half a league," he said.

"We haven't even reached the halfway point of the league season.

"A lot lies ahead.

"We are some distance ahead, but that doesn't mean anything because nothing has been decided."

Speaking about the ins and outs of the match, Valverde admitted that Real Madrid had started well.

"In the first half they had set out a way of playing in which they matched us as we tried to bring the ball out," he said.

"They forced us to play it long and they're good at this.

"That said, we did have our chances.

"It was a difficult game.

"It's true that in the second half we took control and had the ball.

"[At 2-0] we did not consider Real Madrid to have lost already.

"Real Madrid almost had more chance against us with 10 than with 11."

He also had some specific praise for Sergio Busquets' defensive performance, while pointing out that the midfielder is also so skilled at bringing the ball out.