Manchester City have booked their place in the Carabao Cup final following a comprehensive victory over Newcastle United, maintaining their dominant form in English football’s premier league cup competition. After a commanding performance in the first leg of the semi-final, Pep Guardiola’s side secured another emphatic win in the second leg, confirming a 5-1 aggregate triumph.
The second-leg encounter, held at City’s Etihad Stadium on Wednesday evening, saw the hosts take control from the outset. Omar Marmoush opened the scoring in the seventh minute, slotting in a precise finish to give City an early advantage. Notably, Marmoush started in place of Erling Haaland, yet showcased his attacking instincts with clinical efficiency.
City continued to press, launching a series of rapid-fire attacks. Newcastle created a few opportunities of their own, but City goalkeeper James Trafford proved impenetrable, brilliantly saving shots from Joe Willock and Anthony Gordon. Marmoush doubled his tally with a header in the 29th minute, before Tijjani Reijnders added a third goal just minutes later, giving the Sky Blues a commanding 3-0 lead by half-time.
The second half witnessed Newcastle attempting a resurgence. Anthony Elanga’s stunning strike in the 62nd minute gave the visitors a glimmer of hope, yet City remained composed, denying any further breakthroughs. The match concluded 3-1, completing a 5-1 aggregate victory and sending Manchester City into the Carabao Cup final for the first time since 2021, marking their 10th appearance in the competition’s showpiece.
Meanwhile, Arsenal have already secured their place in the final, overcoming Chelsea in the other semi-final. This sets up a tantalising clash at London’s historic Wembley Stadium on 22 March, where Manchester City will face Arsenal for the coveted trophy.
Semi-Final Second Leg Summary: Manchester City vs Newcastle United
| Date & Venue | Score | Goal Scorers (City) | Goal Scorers (Newcastle) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Feb, Etihad | 3-1 | Omar Marmoush (2), Tijjani Reijnders | Anthony Elanga | Marmoush started for Haaland |
| Aggregate | 5-1 | City progress to final |
Manchester City’s blend of attacking flair and defensive solidity has once again been evident, and they now prepare to challenge Arsenal in what promises to be a high-octane Carabao Cup final.
Tags: Football, Manchester City, Carabao Cup, Newcastle United