Manchester City Secure FA Cup Progression with Victory Over Salford
Manchester City advanced to the fifth round of the FA Cup after a hard-fought 2-0 victory against League Two side Salford on Saturday, 14 February 2026. The match, which saw City dominate possession and control the tempo, was crucial for their continued pursuit of silverware this season.
Guardiola's Rotated Squad Delivers Result
Manager Pep Guardiola made significant changes to his starting lineup, rotating the squad with nine alterations from their previous outing. Key players such as Erling Haaland and Bernardo Silva were rested, allowing fringe and younger talents to gain valuable match experience. This strategic move highlighted City's depth and Guardiola's focus on managing player fitness amid a congested fixture list.
Early Breakthrough and Late Seal
The match kicked off with City asserting their authority early on. Just six minutes into the game, Salford defender Alfie Dorrington inadvertently scored an own goal, giving Manchester City a 1-0 lead. Despite this setback, Salford showed commendable resilience, creating several chances and testing City's defence throughout the match.
However, City's quality ultimately shone through. In the latter stages of the game, defender Marc Guehi netted his first goal for the club, sealing a 2-0 victory and ensuring safe passage to the next round. Guehi's contribution was a highlight, demonstrating his growing importance to the squad.
Implications for City's Season
This win not only keeps Manchester City alive in the FA Cup but also provides a much-needed week of rest for the squad. With Premier League challenges looming, the victory allows key players to recover while maintaining momentum. Guardiola's decision to rotate proved effective, balancing competition demands with squad management.
Salford, despite the loss, earned praise for their spirited performance against one of England's top clubs. Their efforts in the FA Cup have showcased their potential and fighting spirit, even in defeat.
