Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has hit out at bitter rivals Barcelona after losing the Super Cup final to the European champions.
The former Chelsea boss came under criticism after appearing to poke Barca assistant Tito Vilanova in the eye during an injury-time brawl between players and staff from both sides.
Catalan defender Gerard Pique accused the Portuguese coach of destroying football after his antics in Real’s defeat at the Nou Camp.
"Real Madrid gave a spectacular performance from the first to the last minute,” Mourinho said.
"We came here to play. What I'm about to say is not a criticism, I'm just stating a fact - there were no ball-boys in the second half, which is something typical of small teams when experiencing difficulties.
"I'm not going to say we're happy because we didn't win the Spanish Super Cup, that would be hypocritical of me. But we intended to play like men and not fall on the ground at the slightest touch," he added.
The 48-year-old, who already has a Champions League touchline ban to serve, could face further action after his display in the Super Cup final.
Danielle Joynson
