Pep Guardiola’s tactical second-half adjustments put the Cityzens in control of the Carabao Cup semi-final ahead of the return leg at the Etihad.
Manchester City took a giant step toward the Carabao Cup final with a clinical 2-0 victory over Newcastle United at St. James’ Park on Tuesday night. Goals from Antoine Semenyo and Rayan Cherki ensured Pep Guardiola’s side returned to Manchester with a significant advantage for the second leg.
A Game of Two Halves The first half was a cagey affair, with Eddie Howe’s Newcastle feeding off a raucous home atmosphere. The Magpies created several early opportunities, primarily through crosses into the box, but failed to test James Trafford in the City goal.
City, meanwhile, struggled to find their usual rhythm in a congested midfield during the opening 45 minutes. However, the game shifted dramatically after the break.
The Breakthrough The deadlock was broken in the 53rd minute. Jeremy Doku exploited space on the wing to whip in a dangerous cross; after a clever flick from Bernardo Silva, Antoine Semenyo was perfectly positioned to fire home. It marks a stellar run for Semenyo, who has now scored two goals in his last two appearances for the club.
Newcastle pushed for an equalizer, but City’s defense remained resolute. In the dying moments of stoppage time, Rayan Cherki doubled the lead with a first-time finish, silencing the Gallowgate End and putting City firmly in the driver’s seat.
The Path to the Final The second leg is scheduled for February 4th at the Etihad Stadium. Under current regulations:
- City will qualify with a win, a draw, or even a one-goal defeat.
- A two-goal Newcastle victory would send the tie to a penalty shootout.
- Newcastle requires a win by three or more goals to advance in regulation time.
Next Up: The Manchester Derby Newcastle must now shift their focus to a Premier League clash against Wolverhampton this Sunday. For Manchester City, the stakes couldn’t be higher as they prepare for the Manchester Derby against Manchester United at Old Trafford this Saturday (12:30 GMT).
