Manchester City have booked their place in the Carabao Cup final after a commanding 3-1 victory over Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday evening. The result secured a comprehensive 5-1 aggregate triumph in the semi-final tie, setting up a Wembley showdown with Premier League leaders Arsenal.
First-Half Flurry Seals the Deal
Pep Guardiola's side took control early, with Omar Marmoush netting twice inside the opening half-hour. The Egyptian forward opened the scoring in the seventh minute with a fortunate finish, as the ball rebounded off his shin and looped over Newcastle goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale after a challenge from Dan Burn.
City continued to press, and Marmoush doubled their advantage with a close-range header after Kieran Trippier's attempted clearance went awry. Tijjani Reijnders then added a third goal before the break, capitalising on a swift counter-attack to put the tie beyond doubt.
Newcastle's Struggles and Injury Blow
Newcastle, defending the trophy they won last season, faced an uphill battle from the outset. Their task became even more difficult when forward Anthony Gordon was forced off with an injury before half-time, compounding manager Eddie Howe's frustrations.
The Magpies did create chances, with Joe Willock missing a clear opportunity to equalise early on, and Sven Botman forcing a good save from City goalkeeper James Trafford. However, they were largely outplayed by a City side that demonstrated their attacking prowess.
Second-Half Comfort and Consolation
After establishing a commanding lead, City eased off in the second period, a trend that has concerned Guardiola in recent matches. Newcastle took advantage of this lapse, with Anthony Elanga pulling a goal back just after the hour mark. The Swedish winger cut in from the right, beat three defenders, and curled a low shot into the net.
Elanga should have added a second shortly afterwards but miscued his effort, and City survived further pressure as Newcastle pushed forward. Despite this, the hosts remained in control and even came close to extending their lead late on, with substitute Erling Haaland twice testing Ramsdale.
Looking Ahead to Wembley
The victory sets up an enticing Carabao Cup final against Arsenal, who currently lead the Premier League. Guardiola may have been pleased to give Haaland a rest ahead of Sunday's crucial trip to Liverpool, but the Norwegian's late cameo suggests he will be ready for the challenges ahead.
For Newcastle, the defeat marks the end of their trophy defence and highlights the gap they must bridge to compete with the Premier League's elite. Howe will be hoping for a swift recovery for Gordon as his side regroups for the remainder of the season.
