Manchester City reach EFL Cup semi-finals

City book semi-final spot

Manchester City advanced to the semi-finals of the EFL Cup with a 2-0 victory over Brentford in the quarter-final stage.

Guardiola Rotates ahead of festive schedule

Ahead of the busy festive fixture schedule, Spanish coach Pep Guardiola rested his star striker and top scorer, Norway’s Erling Haaland. Despite this, City secured their sixth consecutive win in all competitions.

Haaland Left on the Bench

Haaland remained on the bench as part of seven changes made by Guardiola for the match at the Etihad Stadium.

Cherki and Savinho Seal the Win

City owed their victory to goals from Frenchman Rayan Cherki (32) and Brazilian Savinho (67).

Injury Setback for Doku

Savinho came on as a substitute for Belgian winger Jeremy Doku, whom Guardiola announced on Tuesday will be sidelined until early next year due to injury.

Forced Early Substitution

After 20 minutes, Guardiola was forced to bring on the in-form Phil Foden, replacing Norwegian international Oscar Bobb, who picked up an injury.

Stunning Opener from Cherki

Cherki opened the scoring for City after controlling a cleared corner with his chest on the edge of the area before unleashing a superb strike into the top corner (32).

Savinho Doubles the Advantage

Savinho added the second goal with a shot from inside the box that deflected off a defender’s foot and looped over Icelandic goalkeeper Hákon Valdimarsson (67).

City End Semi-Final Drought

City previously won the EFL Cup four consecutive times under Guardiola between 2018 and 2021, and this marks the first time in five seasons that the team has reached the semi-finals.

Newcastle Join the Last Four

Newcastle United also joined City in the last four after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Fulham.

Late Drama Seals Newcastle Win

Democratic Republic of Congo forward Yoane Wissa (10) and Lewis Miley (90+2) scored for the Magpies, while Fulham’s goal came through Serbian midfielder Saša Lukić (16).