Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata has admitted the Red Devils 'had to win' their Champions League fixture against Wolfsburg on Wednesday.

The Spaniard played a key role in United's 2-1 victory over the Bundesliga outfit, scoring a goal from the penalty spot, while also setting up Chris Smalling's winner with an impressive piece of skill.

Mata said it was crucial the Red Devils secured all three points against Wolfsburg after dropping their opening Group B fixture against PSV Eindhoven.

"We knew we had to win today. We are happy today," Mata said post match.

"It was a very tough game because we were physically tired at the end.

"But we did what we had to do."