Manchester City took a major step toward another domestic final after securing a composed 2-0 away victory over Newcastle United in the first leg of the EFL Cup semifinal. Goals from Antoine Semenyo and Rayan Cherki capped a controlled display from Pep Guardiola’s rotated side, leaving the defending champions with a mountain to climb ahead of the return leg at the Etihad Stadium.
First-Half Control Sets the Platform
Despite the intensity expected from a semifinal at St. James’ Park, City dictated the tempo early. Guardiola’s changes did little to disrupt their rhythm, as the visitors dominated possession and limited Newcastle to half-chances. The Magpies pushed with energy, backed by a vocal home crowd, but City’s structure and patience ensured the contest remained firmly on their terms.
Semenyo Delivers on the Big Stage
The breakthrough arrived in the 53rd minute when Antoine Semenyo struck decisively to give City a deserved lead. The forward, fresh from a high-profile £62.5 million move from Bournemouth, continued his impressive start in sky blue. After registering a goal and an assist on debut against Exeter, Semenyo once again proved his value with a powerful, composed finish that silenced the home support.
His performance earned him a share of the Man of the Match honours and underlined why City moved quickly to secure his signature.
Cherki Seals It Late
As Newcastle pushed forward in search of an equaliser, spaces began to open up. City remained disciplined and waited for their moment. Deep into stoppage time, Rayan Cherki produced a moment of quality, curling a stunning effort into the corner in the 90+8th minute to double the advantage and all but settle the tie.
Trafford Impresses as City Rotate Successfully
Behind the scenes, City’s rotation paid off. Goalkeeper James Trafford delivered a confident performance to keep a clean sheet, while the back line stayed compact under pressure. Guardiola will be pleased not only with the result but also with the maturity shown by his squad in a hostile environment.
Newcastle, meanwhile, expressed frustration over several refereeing decisions, but ultimately struggled to break down City’s organised shape.
Guardiola on Haaland Fatigue and Marmoush Boost
After the match, Pep Guardiola revealed that Erling Haaland is feeling the effects of a heavy workload. The Norwegian striker has already logged 1,821 Premier League minutes this season, scoring 20 goals as City chase the title and sit second in the table, six points behind Arsenal.
Guardiola also confirmed he is hopeful of welcoming Omar Marmoush back soon from Africa Cup of Nations duty. Marmoush, who recently featured in Egypt’s quarterfinal success, could provide crucial rotation options as City balance domestic and European commitments.
What It Means Going Into the Second Leg
With a two-goal cushion and a clean sheet secured away from home, Manchester City now hold a commanding advantage heading into the return leg at the Etihad. Newcastle will need a near-perfect performance to overturn the deficit, while City can afford to manage the game with confidence.
As the season enters a decisive phase, this result reinforces City’s depth, adaptability, and hunger for silverware—qualities that continue to define Guardiola’s reign and keep them firmly in contention on all fronts.
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