Manchester City, where Uzbekistan national team defender Abdukodir Khusanov plays, will compete for the main prize in the English League Cup - Carabao Cup final. The "Citizens" completely prevailed in a two-match clash with Newcastle in the semi-finals: a 2-0 victory in the first away match and a 3-1 victory in the return home match (5-1 on aggregate) - more than enough evidence to advance to the final.
In the second leg, Omar Marmusch made a real "explosion": the striker scored a brace. Tijani Reynders also scored a goal, securing the team's victory. Newcastle's only goal came from Anthony Elan.
The most important point is that our compatriot Khusanov played the full match. Staying on the field for 90 minutes in a game with high pressure like the semi-final means confidence, stability, and a place in the team system.
Following this, an expert from cityxtra.co.uk, considered one of the influential sources, evaluated the actions of the Manchester City players. The following ratings also describe the mood of the game well.
James Trafford - 7
Experts believe he eliminated a potential goal in Willock's overthrow in the 9th minute. Shortly thereafter, he was praised for saving the team with several important saves during the game, also saving Gordon's shot.
Mateusz Nunes - 5
The main drawback of his game is that he gave Lewis Hall too many chances and a yellow card that he "didn't have to take." It was noted that this allowed Newcastle to play a dangerous standard outside the penalty area.
Abdukodir Khusanov - 6
Experts did not hide the fact that he made some mistakes in the second half, but in general, it was noted that Husanov played quite firmly in defense. In particular, his speed served as a "shut-off" in several situations - he covered the danger in time. It was also noted that the injuries of Yoshko Guardiol and Ruben Dias have affected City's positions in recent weeks, but it was emphasized that Abdukodir's level of individual skill and confidence has increased due to more game practice.
Nathan Ake - 5
It was noted that Guardiola substituted him at halftime because he appeared unreliable in defense.
Ryan Ait-Nuri - 6.5
He played well on the left wing again. Experts have rated him as the club's most effective left-back at the moment. At the same time, it is said that O'Reilly can be a serious competitor to him. The injuries seem to be behind him - there's a belief that City can now take full advantage of his influence.
Nico González - 6
He played steadily in midfield until the 83rd minute. It was emphasized that regular practice after uncertain moves in the game against Tottenham could bring him back to his best form.
Nico O'Reilly - 6
With Ayt-Nuri, he understood well on the left wing, in many episodes it was difficult to stop him. Wing shifting skills have significantly improved, and there's a possibility he'll return to midfield in the future.
Tijani Reynders - 7.5
Experts believe this is his best performance for City so far. He resembled the mood of his debut match against Wolverhampton: he posed a threat from everywhere, was known for his ability to break through to the goal, his ability to change the game, and his ability to see the field.
Antoine Semeno - 7
The pressing, especially at the start of the game, was said to be almost ideal. Due to this pressure, Lewis Hall lost possession. It was estimated that Golli played a major role in the episodes, showing why he was valued at £65 million.
Phil Foden - 5.5
He started well, was active in pressing, and stopped Voltemede several times. The ability to play in tight spaces is special, but making mistakes in certain situations was cited as a sign that "it needs to be corrected."
Omar Marmush - 8.5
Experts described it as "a brilliant substitute for Haaland." He had previously scored his first Premier League goal against Wolverhampton Wanderers, but this time he became a true star. Two goals in the first half against Newcastle brought calmness to the game and opened the way to the final.
Erling Haaland - 6
After coming off the bench, he deflected Botman and fiercely broke into the penalty area, but the goal was not scored due to Ramsdale's save. Nevertheless, it was noted that it had a positive impact on the game and looked much better than in recent weeks.
Ryan Cherki - 6.5
At the end of the match, he played an important role, creating two chances close to goals for Haaland. There is an opinion that otherwise the debate could have "extinguished."
Rodri - 6
He entered the field in the 71st minute, maintaining the structure in midfield, and demonstrated leadership and discipline to maintain the team's dominance.
Rico Lewis - 5
He fell at the end of the game, didn't do anything negative. Given that Gonzalez has a yellow card, it was considered a "good substitution."
Max Alleyn - 5.5
Falling down at halftime, he quickly fought against Elanga at the start of the second half, appearing reliable in defense. As his performances for the first team increase, he may become an important player, but it was said that he still needs more experience.
In conclusion, "Manchester City" reached the final very confidently, and Khusanov, having fully completed another important stage, shows that he is behaving more and more freely in the atmosphere of big games. Now the most interesting thing is the test in the final. And here's the taste of the cup: one night, one game, and everything will be decided.
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