A decisive half-time substitution by Pep Guardiola proved to be the turning point as Manchester City overcame a 1-0 deficit to defeat Bournemouth and secure a place in the FA Cup semi-finals, 9am news report
City will now face Nottingham Forest in their seventh consecutive FA Cup last-four appearance, continuing their dominance in the competition.
Despite City’s superior possession, Bournemouth created the better chances early on. City had a golden opportunity to take the lead in the 13th minute when Tyler Adams fouled Bernardo Silva, earning the visitors a penalty. However, Erling Haaland’s spot-kick was saved brilliantly by Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Moments later, Haaland went one-on-one with Kepa but chipped his effort over the bar, squandering another chance. Bournemouth capitalized on these misses when Evanilson found the net, giving the home side a 1-0 lead going into halftime.
Sensing the need for a shift, Guardiola introduced Nico O’Reilly in place of Abdukodir Khusanov at halftime. The move paid off instantly, as O’Reilly delivered a pinpoint cross for Haaland to slide in the equalizer just after the break.
City’s dominance continued, and in the 63rd minute, another substitute, Omar Marmoush, pounced on a clever assist from O’Reilly, squeezing a low shot under Kepa’s weak dive to put City in front.
Despite Bournemouth’s efforts to find a late equalizer, City’s defensive resilience ensured they held on for the 2-1 victory, booking their place in the FA Cup semi-finals.
With this win, Manchester City will take on Nottingham Forest in the semi-finals at Wembley, as they continue their bid for another domestic trophy under Pep Guardiola.
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