The Carabao Cup semi-final first legs took place this week, where Manchester City claimed a crucial 2-0 win against Newcastle.
The Carabao Cup’s fixtures had all sides battling for a placement in the final, and though nobody has been eliminated, vital scorelines have been achieved by half of the teams.
Among the matches, there was Newcastle vs Manchester City, and Chelsea vs Arsenal. Two massive games. While the Cityzens have gone 2-0 up in their task, Arsenal have a 3-2 edge.
Currently, this means the conclusion would be Arsenal vs Man City, but there still remains a fixture where Chelsea and Newcastle will attempt to turn things around.
City gave a positive display against the Magpies, and the score reflects just that. It was Antoine Semenyo who scored his second goal in just two games for his new side, and then, later, Rayan Cherki added to his teammate’s successful efforts.
It was a closer 90 minutes for Chelsea and Arsenal, with Ben White, Viktor Gyokeres, and Martin Zubimendi all on the scoresheet for the triumphant club, but an Alejandro Garnacho double keeps the Blues alive.
It’s been a good run of results for Man City, with this and also their 10-1 victory against Exeter City that started their FA Cup campaign. They have been drawn with a fifth round meeting with either Salford or Swindon.
In the Premier League, Arsenal are leading the way with quite a gap. Manchester City and Aston Villa are still in contention, but it will take something big to overcome the Gunners. City’s next opponents will be their rivals, Manchester United, in the anticipated derby.
Even though they aren’t ruled out of the PL race, considering the scenario, this will add much more significance to this title, along with the FA Cup and Champions League.
Despite having the crucial lead, the Sky Blues will have to make sure they can bring this energy when the next match arrives.
Winter signing Semenyo has been very impactful for Manchester City in only a few appearances, and another goal gives him reason to be delighted.
Antoine Semenyo after the fixture
“I was just in the right area to tap it in, and we’re victorious, so we’re happy.”
“The whole environment here is perfect. Everyone is wanting to achieve the best. I’ve come into that, and they’ve helped me, and they’ve made me welcome.”
“I’m taking the confidence from Bournemouth to here. I’m playing with a smile on my face. I’m enjoying every moment.”