Manchester City secured a 2-0 first-leg advantage in their Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle. Antoine Semenyo scored on his second appearance for the club, while Rayan Cherki added a stoppage-time second.
Semenyo opened the scoring with a finish set up by Jeremy Doku and Bernardo Silva. He thought he had doubled the lead from a corner with a clever effort, but VAR intervened after a long review. Referee Chris Kavanagh went to the monitor and ruled it out for subjective offside involving Erling Haaland, who was deemed to be impeding Malick Thiaw.
The decision sparked controversy and delayed the game by nearly six minutes. Pep Guardiola later criticised the process, saying VAR should not take so long and referencing unpunished penalties from City’s previous league visit to St James’ Park.
Key moments and Newcastle chances
Newcastle created four big opportunities but failed to convert any. Yoane Wissa had a shot saved by James Trafford, Bruno Guimaraes hit the woodwork, and there was another miss in the first half. City became the only side this season to prevent Newcastle scoring at home.
Cherki sealed the win in the ninth minute of added time with a composed finish past Nick Pope. The last 19 away teams to win the first leg of a League Cup semi-final have reached the final.
Reactions from managers and players
Guardiola said the VAR delay and decision would make his team stronger. He noted that big teams must overcome such situations and pointed out inconsistencies compared to the league game at Newcastle.
Semenyo praised the environment at City, saying everyone is confident and welcoming. He is enjoying the move and playing with a smile.
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe called the late goal a body blow but not fatal. He mentioned naivety in the final minute and some fatigue, but refused to fault his players.
