Manchester City’s Masterclass Guides Them into FA Cup Semi-Finals

In a night under the dazzling lights of the stadium, Manchester City showcased their sheer class and tactical prowess, cruising to a 2-0 victory over Newcastle United. This triumph not only highlighted their dominance but also secured their spot in the FA Cup semi-finals, a journey they’ve made for the sixth consecutive time, setting a new record in the competition’s history.

City’s Quality Unleashed

From the outset, it was clear that Manchester City meant business. Bernardo Silva, with a pair of deflected goals, became the architect of Newcastle’s downfall. His first, a wicked deflection off Dan Burn, soared over Martin Dubravka, the Newcastle keeper, who despite his valiant efforts, could do little to prevent the ball from finding the back of the net. Silva’s magic didn’t end there; a second deflection, this time off Sven Botman, doubled City’s lead, firmly placing them in the driver’s seat.

Newcastle’s Valiant Effort

Despite a tactical tweak to their formation, Newcastle found themselves outmatched by City’s relentless quality. Alexander Isak’s missed opportunity in the first half symbolised the Magpies’ struggles, as they failed to convert the rare chances that came their way. The introduction of four substitutes in the second half brought fresh energy, but City’s superiority was simply insurmountable.

Player Ratings Highlight City’s Dominance

• Manchester City Player Ratings

  • Stefan Ortega: 6/10
  • Kyle Walker: 6.5/10
  • Manuel Akanji: 7/10
  • Ruben Dias: 7/10
  • Josko Gvardiol: 7.5/10
  • Rodri: 7.5/10
  • Mateo Kovacic: 7.5/10
  • Phil Foden: 8/10
  • Bernardo Silva: 8.5/10
  • Jeremy Doku: 7.5/10
  • Erling Haaland: 6/10
  • Substitutes: Oscar Bobb: 7/10, Julian Alvarez: N/A

• Newcastle United Player Ratings (5-3-2)

  • Martin Dubravka: 8/10
  • Jacob Murphy: 5/10
  • Fabian Schar: 4/10
  • Jamaal Lascelles: 4/10
  • Sven Botman: 3.5/10
  • Dan Burn: 4/10
  • Bruno Guimaraes: 4/10
  • Sean Longstaff: 3/10
  • Joe Willock: 2/10
  • Anthony Gordon: 4/10
  • Alexander Isak: 4/10
  • Substitutes: Miguel Almiron: 6/10, Lewis Hall: 6/10, Elliot Anderson: 5/10, Lewis Miley: 6/10, Emil Krafth: N/A