Man City Cruise Past Brentford to Book Carabao Cup Semi-Final Spot
Manchester City have moved one step closer to another domestic trophy after a composed 2–0 victory over Brentford at the Etihad Stadium, a result that sent Pep Guardiola’s side into the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup. It was a night where control, patience, and moments of individual brilliance were seen, even without some of City’s biggest names starting the game.
Brentford actually began the match with confidence, pressing high and looking to disrupt City’s rhythm early on. A few half-chances were created, and for a brief period, the visitors looked like they might cause an upset. However, those opportunities were not taken, and City gradually began to assert their authority on the ball. Brentford were then forced to rely heavily on their stand-in goalkeeper, Hakon Valdimarsson, who was kept busy as City’s attackers found space around the box.
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The breakthrough arrived just after the half-hour mark, and it came in spectacular fashion. Rayan Cherki picked up the ball on the edge of the area, shifted it onto his right foot, and unleashed a thunderous strike that flew into the top corner. It was one of those goals where the goalkeeper had no chance, and it underlined why Cherki is quickly becoming an important figure in this City side. Before that moment, some controversy had already been stirred when Brentford felt a red card should have been shown for a foul on Kevin Schade, but with no VAR in operation, the referee’s yellow card decision stood.
In the second half, City continued to dominate possession and limit Brentford’s attacking threat. Chances came and went, with long-range efforts tested and goalkeepers on both sides called into action. James Trafford produced an excellent save to deny Kristoffer Ajer, ensuring City’s lead remained intact during a brief Brentford push.
The tie was effectively sealed in the 67th minute. Savinho’s effort took a deflection, looping awkwardly over Valdimarsson before dropping into the net. It was a fortunate goal, but one that reflected City’s sustained pressure and control of the game.
Despite resting Erling Haaland and dealing with several injuries, City looked calm and assured throughout. Young players were trusted, squad depth was showcased, and momentum continued to build during a flawless December run. Attention will now turn to a two-legged semi-final clash with Newcastle, as City edge closer to a return to Wembley and a chance to lift silverware once again.
For Brentford, the frustration will linger. Promising moments were seen, but once again, they were unable to find a way past City, exiting the competition at the quarter-final stage for the second straight season.
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