Semenyo and Cherki hand Man City control against Newcastle

City seize semi-final control at St James’ Park

Manchester City walked away from St James’ Park with more than a victory. They left with control of a Carabao Cup semi-final, shaped by precision, patience and a sense of inevitability that crept in long before the final whistle.

Goals from Antoine Semenyo and Rayan Cherki secured a 2-0 first-leg win over Newcastle, a result that tilts the tie firmly towards Man City ahead of the return meeting at the Etihad on 4 February. For Newcastle, it was a night haunted by moments that promised much and delivered little.

Semenyo sets early tone

Semenyo’s arrival in Manchester has been swift and decisive. Less than a week on from his £65m move from Bournemouth, he continues to justify the investment. Having scored and assisted in the 10-1 demolition of Exeter City, he repeated the trick of influence rather than volume on Tyneside.

His opener came from awareness rather than invention, arriving at the back post to convert after Jeremy Doku’s cross was flicked on by Bernardo Silva. It was a simple goal, but one that reflected City’s ability to punish the smallest lapse.

Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe could only reflect on the rule change that allowed Semenyo to feature, despite his earlier involvement in the competition. That frustration deepened when the winger later saw a second goal disallowed.

Newcastle chances that slipped away

Before City struck, Newcastle flirted with momentum. Yoane Wissa forced James Trafford into a fine touch onto the crossbar, moments before Bruno Guimaraes rattled the woodwork with a fierce drive. Wissa then spurned a close-range chance that demanded more.

When nine minutes of stoppage time were announced, belief rippled again, memories of last week’s 4-3 drama against Leeds still fresh.

That hope did not last.

Cherki delivers decisive blow

Cherki’s goal in the 97th minute felt terminal. Introduced from the bench, he had already tested Nick Pope twice before lashing the ball home to double City’s advantage. As Newcastle supporters streamed out, the noise drained away.

This leaves Howe’s side facing a daunting task. Newcastle have won only once at the Etihad and have not scored there since Howe took charge in 2021. To overturn this deficit would require history to bend sharply in their favour.

Man City edge closer to Wembley

City, meanwhile, head back to Manchester with confidence grounded in precedent. They have progressed from their last six Carabao Cup semi-finals and lifted the trophy each time. With a two-goal cushion and growing depth, Man City look well placed to return to Wembley once more.