Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has praised Andres Iniesta as "unique" after the Spain midfielder's sensational opening goal helped the defending European champions ease past Viktoria Plzen Wednesday.

Iniesta, who has only recently returned from a hamstring injury, was instrumental in the 2-0 victory at the Nou Camp, combining with Lionel Messi to score the opening goal in the 10th minute.

"Andres, when he's in good shape, is unique, a star player. He works hard and scores more goals than you think, and the way he can throw the opposition off balance is so important for us," the Barcalona manager said.

"Last year he was vital and now we just hope he can be important again. We will try to look after him and make sure he is fine."

Barcelona's victory extended their unbeaten run to 19 in all competitions and took them joint top of Group H, level on points with AC Milan, after three games.

Lionel Messi