Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has warned his side that while they have forged a four-point lead in the title race, nothing is decided at this stage of the campaign.

The Blaugrana tactician was yesterday discussing the Spanish giants' aspirations for a third title in succession, as well as his reaction to the surprise 3-1 defeat to Betis in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday. "The title is never won in January or February. The defeat we suffered is a demonstration of what can happen in sport. It gives value to what we have done already. They (Betis) are leaders in their league, where they have very good players, who have aspirations to reach the first division. They have talent to spare. The defeat against Betis will help us to grow, in about three weeks we play Arsenal, and this will not be easy. But in spite of this, I remain positive for the second half of the season."

Despite their defeat Barca progressed to the semi-finals of the Spanish Cup 6-3 on aggregate.