Guardiola: Six-point gap to Real Madrid is still considerable

Pep Guardiola has admitted that he was happy that Real Madrid was held to a 1-1 draw by Villarreal on Wednesday, but feels its advantage at the top of the Primera Division table remains considerable.

"We are behind them, but it is clear that it is better for us that they draw than win," Guardiola said.

"Six points are fewer than 10, but the difference is still a lot. Madrid have two draws in a row, but it does not mean they will draw the rest of their games.

"What usually happens is that Madrid win almost all of their matches. That is why the distance is so significant. That is why I said the Liga title was lost. It was a comment purely based on sporting matters."

Guardiola conceded that the stalemate at El Madrigal was favorable for his own side, but refused to comment on Madrid's criticism of the refereeing decisions.

"I did not watch Madrid's game against Villarreal, so I have no opinion about it," Guardiola told reporters at a news conference.

"When I learned about the draw, I was happier than I would be if they had won, but I slept at night the exact same way."