Juan Mata: Why Manchester United have the edge of Southampton for EFL Cup final

MANCHESTER UNITED's Europa League win over Saint-Etienne could give them the edge of Southampton in the EFL Cup final on Sunday, according to Juan Mata.

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Juan Mata thinks the win over Saint-Etienne will be a confidence booster for the EFL Cup final

Manchester United ground out a 1-0 win against Saint-Etienne in the Europa League this afternoon to run out 4-0 winners on aggregate.

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The result sees the Red Devils progress to the last 16 stage of the competition.

And Juan Mata has admitted he was delighted with the performance, claiming it will stand them in good stead for Sunday's EFL Cup final clash with Southampton.

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Juan Mata got the assist for Henrikh Mkhitaryan's goal

Juan Mata - 5 things you need to know

"From the first minute I think we were very professional," Mata told BT Sport.

"We scored one goal which made it easier for us and we are very happy.

"You know its not just about qualifying but winning and going into the [EFL Cup] final on Sunday with more confidence.

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"It was the best way to face the final - qualifying and winning and we have more confidence.

"We have now three days to rest.

"Southampton haven't played in the last week so they may be more fresh but I think we face the final with confidence and will try and win the second trophy of the season."

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