Mourinho Blast Players For Celebrating One Goal Lead

Jose Mourinho criticised his players for over celebrating Juan Mata's opener in Manchester United's EFL Cup semi-final first-leg victory over Hull City. It took United 56 minutes to break down a resolute Hull side at Old Trafford, Mata stooping at the far post to turn Henrikh Mkhitaryan's header beyond Eldin Jakupovic.

The Spaniard wheeled away in front of the Stretford End as United partook in lengthy celebrations, actions Mourinho disproved of after the game. He said “We needed to play, In cup ties every goal can be crucial so why celebrate when you have half an hour to play? I don't think we should, there is no reason to celebrate the first goal.”

The comments came after Mourinho called on United's players and supporters to raise their game ahead of Liverpool's visit to Old Trafford for Merseyside v Manchester on Super Sunday. Despite taking a giant stride towards the EFL Cup final with a 2-0 victory over Hull, there was a subdued atmosphere at the Theatre of Dreams, particularly in the first period, until second-half strikes from Mata and Marouane Fellaini lifted the mood and with United set to host arch rivals Liverpool next time out, Mourinho was keen to rally himself, his players and the United faithful.