Manchester City Take Control of Carabao Cup Semi-Final with 2-0 Win at Newcastle

Manchester City moved a step closer to Wembley with a 2-0 victory over holders Newcastle United in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final at St James’ Park.

New signing Antoine Semenyo, who joined from Bournemouth for £65m less than a week ago, struck in the 53rd minute, converting at the back post after Jeremy Doku’s cross was flicked on by Bernardo Silva. Semenyo has now scored in both of his first two appearances for City, the first player to do so since Emmanuel Adebayor in 2009.

City sealed the win deep into stoppage time when substitute Rayan Cherki lashed home in the 98th minute following a flowing team move, giving Pep Guardiola’s side a commanding cushion ahead of the return leg at the Etihad Stadium on February 4.

Newcastle had opportunities to take the lead before Semenyo’s opener, hitting the woodwork twice in quick succession. Goalkeeper James Trafford tipped Yoane Wissa’s header onto the bar, and captain Bruno Guimarães struck the post moments later. Despite nine minutes of added time and a raucous atmosphere, Eddie Howe’s team could not find a breakthrough.

Key Stats & Reaction:

• Semenyo named player of the match (average rating 7.79)
• City dominated: 12 shots (5 on target) vs Newcastle’s 2 (none on target)
• Howe: “We’re still alive… football can conjure up magical moments.”

City, eight-time winners of the competition, are now heavy favourites to reach their first Carabao Cup final since 2021. Newcastle, meanwhile, face a daunting task: they have only ever won once at the Etihad and have yet to score there under Howe’s management.

Next Fixtures:

• Newcastle vs Wolves (Premier League) — January 18
• Manchester City vs Manchester United (Premier League) — January 17