Manchester City reach League Cup final after dominant win over Newcastle, setting up Wembley clash with Arsenal
MANCHESTER City will face Arsenal in the League Cup final after a commanding 3-1 victory over holders Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium.
Pep Guardiola’s side sealed a 5-1 aggregate semi-final win with a ruthless first-half display.
Omar Marmoush scored twice in the opening period, with Tijjani Reijnders also on target before Anthony Elanga’s second-half consolation for Newcastle.
The final against Premier League leaders Arsenal is scheduled for March 22 at Wembley Stadium.
Guardiola expressed his delight at reaching a fifth League Cup final in 10 years, highlighting the competition’s significance to his tenure.
“We will travel to London again, they will wait for us there,” Guardiola said. “I am really happy to be back. Five finals in 10 years is a big milestone.”
He added, “The first title we won here was in the League Cup. When you win something, it helps to win more. It’s a pleasure to play against Arsenal, the best team right now in Europe and maybe the world.”
City took control early when Marmoush’s seventh-minute effort deflected in off Dan Burn.
James Trafford then made key saves from Joe Willock and Anthony Gordon to preserve the lead.
Marmoush doubled the advantage just before the half-hour, heading home after Kieran Trippier failed to clear Antoine Semenyo’s cross.
Reijnders added a superb third in the 32nd minute, finishing a swift counter-attack he started.
City eased off after the break, allowing Elanga to curl in a fine solo goal for Newcastle in the 62nd minute.
The victory provides a timely boost ahead of a crucial Premier League trip to Liverpool this weekend.
Guardiola made six changes for the match, resting Erling Haaland, Rodri and Rayan Cherki.
