Tito Vilanova: Barcelona weren't lucky, we deserved to beat Celtic

Celtic keeper Fraser Forste and Kelvin Wilson look shattered after a late goal from Barcelona's Jordi Alba sealed the win for the hosts.SNS Group

Barcelona boss Tito Vilanova has rejected suggestions his side had a slice of luck as they eventually overcame Celtic in their Champions League tie.

The Catalans fell behind to Georgios Samaras’ first half header, before Andres Iniesta levelled the scores before half-time.

Having recorded 74% possession in the match, Barcelona had Neil Lennon’s side under intense pressure throughout, but looked to have come up short with seconds left on the clock.

Jordi Alba however netted in stoppage time to claim the win, a result Vilanova believes his side deserved.

"Like I said yesterday, we knew Celtic were dangerous, they were fast and powerful in the air," said the Barcelona boss.

"But I don't think it was luck. Normally when you score at the end it is but I think we had bad luck before that.

"I think we deserved to win the game, their keeper played well and credit to them but I think we controlled them pretty well.

"It says a lot about Barca, we keep going and if you don't have any attempts on goal you won't win."

Celtic remain in second spot despite the result, a point ahead of Spartak Moscow, who defeated Benfica in the early kick-off.

Vilanova offered hope to the Scots ahead of their return tie in two weeks time, adding: "I believe that Celtic have a chance to qualify, they have two more matches at home so it is possible that they can go through."

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