Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho was full of praise for Benfica after last night's victory.

United saw off Champions League opponents Benfica 2-0 in a workmanlike performance.

Afterwards, Mourinho spoke to Portuguese reporters: "Benfica were very good, with a couple of absences, the team was stable, Rui (Vitoria) had a half-field and we were short on space, he did not let us play where we are strong.

"We did not have the means to get inside, we did not have have control.

"But in the final part of the game we got a second goal that gave us peace, but Benfica forced me to think of the game differently and when that happens, it's their merit."

He continued: "Benfica can benefit and qualify with six points, great.

"If they do not get the Champions, but Europa League, great too. It would be a loss of quality to get no more than the fourth place. I continue to say that the team that created was Benfica (last night)."

On the Portuguese title race, Mourinho added: "Benfica are Benfica, Sporting is Sporting and FC Porto are FC Porto. They all have the capacity and that offers a great championship until the end."