Man. City crush Newcastle to storm into Carabao Cup Final

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Manchester City booked their place in the Carabao Cup final after a 3–1 victory over Newcastle United in the second leg of their semi-final on Tuesday night, completing a dominant 5–1 aggregate win.

City, who had taken a 2–0 advantage into the return leg, quickly asserted control at the Etihad Stadium.

Omar Marmoush opened the scoring in the seventh minute before doubling the lead in the 29th minute, reacting fastest to a rebound inside the six-yard box to put the hosts firmly in command.

Newcastle struggled to contain City’s tempo and movement, with the visitors relying heavily on goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale to keep the scoreline respectable through a series of fine saves. Despite their efforts, City continued to press and maintained territorial dominance for much of the contest.

The tie was effectively settled in the 32nd minute when Tijjani Reijnders produced a stunning volley from inside the box to make it 3–0 on the night, extending City’s aggregate advantage and leaving Newcastle with a mountain to climb.

Newcastle showed greater urgency after the break and were rewarded in the 62nd minute when Anthony Elanga struck from close range, his effort going in off the post to reduce the deficit to 3–1.

However, hopes of a comeback were short-lived, as City quickly regained control and managed the closing stages with composure.

Pep Guardiola introduced Erling Haaland and other key players in the second half to maintain intensity, while City’s defence remained resolute to deny Newcastle any further openings.

City will now face Arsenal in the final of the Carabao Cup. Arsenal had on Tuesday defeated Chelsea 4-2 on aggregate to reach the final to be played at the Wembley Stadium.