Semenyo and Cherki Fire City Past Newcastle Into Carabao Semis

Semenyo and Cherki Fire City Past Newcastle Into Carabao Semis

NEWCASTLE, ENGLAND — Manchester City weathered an early Newcastle storm before securing a commanding 2-0 victory that booked their place in the Carabao Cup semifinals, setting up a tantalizing Manchester derby in the next round. Pep Guardiola's side demonstrated their championship pedigree when it mattered most, with Antoine Semenyo's second-half breakthrough and Rayan Cherki's stoppage-time clincher ultimately silencing the passionate Geordie faithful.

The opening exchanges crackled with intense tactical warfare as Newcastle, propelled by their vociferous home support, pressed high and disrupted City's typically smooth build-up play. Bruno Guimarães orchestrated the Magpies' midfield with characteristic tenacity, while Anthony Gordon's electric pace down the left flank initially posed significant challenges for Nathan Aké. City's response was measured yet purposeful, with Bernardo Silva intelligently dropping deep to collect possession and Erling Haaland prowling menacingly in the attacking channels, patiently awaiting his moment to strike.

A cagey first half gave way to breakthrough drama eight minutes into the second period. Jérémy Doku's mesmerizing mazy run down the left wing culminated in a dangerous cross that Bernardo Silva met at the far post, with Nick Pope producing a brilliant initial save. However, Antoine Semenyo—the Bournemouth loanee—demonstrated predatory instincts by tucking home the rebound from point-blank range, celebrating his first goal in City colors with understated professionalism.

Newcastle refused to capitulate despite falling behind, with Eddie Howe's tactical adjustments immediately injecting fresh urgency into their approach. The introductions of Anthony Elanga and Sandro Tonali added dynamism to their attacking transitions, while Kieran Trippier provided additional width and delivery quality. Bruno Guimarães came agonizingly close to leveling matters in the 70th minute, his curling 25-yard effort whistling just wide of James Trafford's left post and leaving the home crowd holding their collective breath.

Manchester City dominated possession with 57.5% control, consistently pinning Newcastle's defensive lines deep, yet found the Magpies' organizational structure frustratingly compact. The referee maintained a firm hand throughout a feisty encounter, brandishing eight cards that underscored the raw emotion and commitment both sides brought to this high-stakes cup tie. Phil Foden and Matheus Nunes struggled to find their usual rhythmic brilliance against Newcastle's relentless pressing, while Haaland was largely neutralized by the impressive defensive partnership of Sven Botman and Malick Thiaw.

The match's tactical narrative shifted decisively with Guardiola's shrewd substitutions. The introductions of Rico Lewis and Tijjani Reijnders in the 62nd minute transformed the game's dynamics, with the young fullback's overlapping runs stretching Newcastle's defensive shape and creating critical spaces for City's technically gifted players to exploit. City's collective experience in high-pressure situations ultimately distinguished them, managing the game's tempo with characteristic composure.

Dramatic tension peaked in the 63rd minute when Semenyo appeared to have doubled City's advantage, only for VAR to intervene and rule out the goal for an offside Haaland in the build-up. The decision sparked heated protests from the City bench, but Newcastle's momentary reprieve proved fleeting as their defensive resolve gradually eroded under sustained pressure.

The coup de grâce arrived deep into stoppage time when substitute Rayan Cherki emphatically capped a flowing move with a composed finish. Rayan Aït-Nouri's perfectly weighted assist found the young French winger in space, and his clinical left-footed strike nestled precisely into the bottom corner, sparking wild celebrations among the traveling City supporters. The goal encapsulated City's ruthless efficiency in crucial moments, transforming what had been a tense finale into a comfortable victory.

Looking ahead, the stage is set for a mouthwatering Manchester derby in the Carabao Cup semifinals. Newcastle United will host Wolverhampton Wanderers on January 18, while Manchester City prepare to face their local rivals on January 17 in what promises to be a captivating and emotionally charged encounter.