EFL Cup: Mata, Fellaini guide United closer to final

It was a hard-fought victory for Manchester United as Juan Mata and Maroune Fellaini scored to give the Red Devils a 2-0 lead in the first leg of the EFL Cup semifinal against Hull City.

Juan Mata celebrates his opening strike with the provider of the goal, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, against Hull City at Old Trafford.

It was a hard-fought victory for Manchester United as Juan Mata and Maroune Fellaini scored to give the Red Devils a 2-0 lead in the first leg of the EFL Cup semifinal against Hull City.

After a goalless first half, when the home side created a plethora of chances, Mata broke the deadlock in the 56th minute. Right back Antonio Valencia's cross from the flank was headed towards goal by Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Mata was there to prod in from close range.

Fellaini, who came on for Mata in the 79th minute, then made sure of the win in the 87th minute when he headed in Matteo Darmian's cross from the left side into the goal.

The second leg between the two sides will be played on January 26 at the KCOM Stadium.

More to follow...