The first leg of the EFL Cup semi-final delivered real intrigue. Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City travelled to face Newcastle and secured a crucial 2–0 win. It was a high-tempo game for the fans, but on the pitch the Citizens’ composure and clear game plan proved decisive.
This match stood out for another reason as well. Our compatriot Abduqodir Husanov played confidently throughout and made almost no mistakes in defence. His consistent performance was also rated highly by Sofascore, which named him Man of the Match. In short, Husanov once again proved he is a key pillar the team can rely on today.
In the second half, City increased the pressure. In the 53rd minute, Semenyo opened the scoring with a precise strike to put the visitors ahead. Late on, Newcastle tried to pull one back, but it didn’t pay off. Instead, substitute Cherki scored the decisive goal in the 90+9th minute to seal the win.
EFL Cup. Semi-final
Newcastle – Manchester City 0:2
Goals: Semenyo 53, Cherki 90+9
Newcastle – Pope, Hall, Botman, Miley, Ramsey (Tonali, 69), Thiav, Wissa (Woltemade, 69), Gordon (Elanga, 69), Murphy (Barnes, 45+2), Guimaraes, Joelinton.
Manchester City – Trafford, Nunes (Lewis, 62), Abduqodir Husanov, Alleyn, Ake, O’Riley (Rodri, 61), Semenyo, Doku (Cherki, 77), Foden (Reynders, 62), Silva, Haaland.
Bookings: Joelinton 31, Guimaraes 76 – O’Riley 31, Nunes 39, Silva 73, Lewis 83.
As a result, Manchester City’s 2–0 advantage in the first meeting gives them a very favourable scoreline on the road to the final. All eyes now turn to the second leg: on 4 February, City will decide this tie at home.
For fans, the main takeaway is simple: with reliable players like Husanov, the Citizens’ cup dream looks very real. The next chapter will be even more exciting — get the popcorn ready.
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