Semenyo Shines Again as Manchester City Take Big Step Toward League Cup Final

At St James’ Park, City took control thanks to Semenyo’s composed finish in the second half, his second goal in two matches since joining from Bournemouth. A perfectly timed VAR review later denied him a second strike as marginal offside ruled out his effort, but substitute Cherki ensured a two-goal cushion deep into added time. Newcastle had moments of threat — hitting the woodwork and forcing saves — but couldn’t convert pressure into goals. City now carry a solid lead into the second leg as they chase a spot in the final in March.

Semenyo Continues Hot Start in City Colors

Antoine Semenyo’s impact since his big-money move from Bournemouth has been immediate, and he once again demonstrated why Pep Guardiola’s side invested heavily in the Ghanaian forward. Early in the second half, Semenyo latched onto a well-worked opportunity, getting on the end of a cross to slide home from close range and give City the breakthrough. His movement and composure in the box highlighted his goal-scoring instinct, offering a persistent threat that troubled the Magpies’ defence.

The goal marked Semenyo’s second in as many appearances across competitions for Manchester City, making him the first player to score in his first two matches for the club since 2009. This form has immediately endeared him to supporters and provided an exciting new dimension to City’s attacking options. His understanding with teammates like Jeremy Doku and Bernardo Silva showed promising early chemistry that could be pivotal in City’s cup run.

VAR Drama and Cherki’s Late Contribution

The evening wasn’t without controversy. Shortly after his opening goal, Semenyo thought he had doubled City’s advantage with a clever flicked finish from a set-piece situation. However, after an extended VAR review focused on a tight offside involving a teammate, the effort was disallowed — much to the frustration of City players and coaching staff alike. The lengthy check highlighted ongoing debates over technology and officiating consistency in major cup ties.

Despite the controversial moment, City maintained their focus, and late into stoppage time Rayan Cherki provided the insurance. Picking up the ball on a swift break, Cherki calmly finished to make it 2-0, ensuring a comfortable cushion to take back to Manchester for the second leg. His composed finish underscored the depth in City’s squad and their ability to see out tight matches against resilient opponents.

Newcastle’s Fight and Missed Chances

Newcastle United showed plenty of character and posed moments of danger throughout the match. Early in the second half, goalkeeper James Trafford was called into action with a strong save to deny a threat from Newcastle’s Yoane Wissa. Shortly after, Bruno Guimaraes fired a well-struck effort against the woodwork, leaving the home crowd hoping for an equaliser.

Despite creating these key chances, Newcastle couldn’t find the decisive touch that might have shifted the tie’s momentum. Their inability to convert pressure into goals ultimately proved costly, and manager Eddie Howe now faces the challenge of inspiring a turnaround when City host the second leg back at the Etihad Stadium. The Magpies’ spirited display offered glimpses of promise but highlighted the fine margins at this stage of cup competition.

City’s Tactical Control and Cup Ambitions

Manchester City displayed a blend of tactical discipline and attacking patience that allowed them to dominate key periods of the match without rushing their play. Despite a slow start, they gradually imposed their style, controlling possession and probing for openings as Newcastle defended deep. Semenyo’s goal came from a well-executed team move, reflecting Guardiola’s emphasis on collective play and intelligent positioning.

With their advantage secured, City can approach the second leg with confidence, knowing a two-goal lead gives them a favourable position to reach the League Cup final. Their focus will return to balancing domestic cup ambitions alongside ongoing league and European commitments, but this win provides a morale boost and a clear step toward silverware this season.

Looking Ahead to the Second Leg

All eyes now turn to the return fixture at the Etihad Stadium, where City will seek to protect and possibly extend their lead. The two-goal cushion means Newcastle must adopt a more attacking posture if they hope to overturn the deficit, potentially leaving spaces that City’s forwards can exploit. As semifinals unfold, City’s blend of emerging talent and experienced stars could prove decisive in sealing a place at Wembley in March.

Newcastle, on the other hand, must regroup quickly and refine their finishing if they are to keep alive their hopes of defending the League Cup title they earned last season. The challenge ahead promises tactical battles and high stakes as both sides prepare for a crucial February showdown.