Valverde: We knew we would have to suffer to win against Sporting

Ernesto Valverde says Barcelona were always going to have to suffer to beat Sporting Club in Lisbon on Wednesday. 

A second half own goal from Sebastian Coates was the difference between the two sides as Barca made it eight wins in a row in all competitions and two from two in the Champions League. 

"We knew that in order to win here we would have to suffer against strong opposition," Valverde said. 

"I think we began the game in a determined manner. We dominanted the first half, although we were exposed to Sporting's counter-attacks -- they're very quick. 

"After the goal we had 10, 15 minutes when they put us under pressure and we lost the ball at times, which created insecurity. They had chances, but we could have killed the game off, too... that's how the Champions League is." 

Valverde also praised the performance of Jeremy Mathieu, who made one brilliant block on Lionel Messi as he faced his ex-teammates, and Sergi Roberto, who played in a more advanced position. 

"Sergi Roberto's a midfielder by trade who can play as a full-back, so he can play on that right-sided [forward] role perfectly," the coach said. 

"He can help us in attack and defence and he allows us to have the lines together. We are happy with how he did."

There was also a defence of Luis Suarez, who once again struggled in front of goal and now only has two goals in all competitions this season. 

"Luis Suarez scored on Saturday [at Girona]," Valverde pointed out. 

"I would be worried if he wasn't getting near the goal, but he's always close. Even in the goal today, he was there, close. I'm sure he will get back to scoring again."