Manchester City 0-1 Manchester United: City squeeze into the final

It was far from comfortable, but Manchester City’s work was done in the first leg as they survived a 1-0 derby defeat at home to advance to the Carabao Cup final.

Manchester City fell 1-0 on the night to hated local rivals United, but in the end, their 3-1 first leg victory at Old Trafford was just enough to avoid a penalty shootout as the Blues advanced and will face Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup Final.

City dominated much of the game, but United were able to control certain stretches and throw Pep Guardiola’s men off their game. The home side managed 61% of the ball and created several opportunities, but David de Gea saved United from a bout of early pressure before Nemanja Matić put away United’s first shot of the game off a set piece.

City were clearly rattled, and after Raheem Sterling missed a one-on-one opportunity, United pushed forward looking for a goal that would send the tie to a penalty shootout. In the end, although the defensive performance was shaky at times in what was a truly odd formation, City held their nerve and found a way into the final.

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City will be massive favorites heading into the clash at Wembley against Villa as they look to claim the league cup for the third consecutive season. City must be wary to not underestimate their opponents, however, as they look to claim their first silverware of 2019/20.

Losing to United is never an ideal situation, but given the context and aggregate score, it stings much less. Without away goals, it is concerning that was once a 3-0 lead at Old Trafford came into serious doubt. All that matters is the result, however, and City will once again have the chance to win the first domestic silverware of 2020.