Both Manchester City and Newcastle must prepare for the Champions League round of 16 next week, so the two teams have made significant adjustments to their forces.
However, coach Pep Guardiola surprised by changing up to 10 positions compared to the previous squad, almost fielding a second squad. Meanwhile, Newcastle only changed 5 positions.
However, Man City still almost had an early opening goal if Tijjani Reijnders had not missed the opportunity to face goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale right at the beginning of the match.
After that, Newcastle gradually created significant pressure. In the 11th minute, Nico Gonzalez had to rush back to clear the ball right on the goal line after a mistake by goalkeeper James Trafford. However, in the 18th minute, Man City no longer escaped defeat when the high-pressing defense was throughed by Tonali, creating conditions for Harvey Barnes to escape and finish neatly into the top corner, opening the score for the home team.
After conceding a goal, The Citizens had many difficulties in approaching Newcastle's goal. However, the away team unexpectedly equalized in the 39th minute in a rather lucky way. Jeremy Doku crossed dangerously in front of the goal, Savinho, although not preparing to finish, the ball hit his foot and then rolled across the goal line, helping Man City equalize the score.
Stepping into the second half, Guardiola's team took better advantage of the opportunity to create a turning point. In the 47th minute, Omar Marmoush finished from close range after Matheus Nunes' cross, putting Man City ahead 2-1.
In the 65th minute, this duo continued to coordinate effectively when Marmoush launched a dangerous long-range shot, completing a double and increasing the score to 3-1 for the away team. Having a 2-goal advantage, Man City played more leisurely in the remaining time. They controlled the ball firmly and did not give Newcastle any significant opportunities to find an equalizer.
The 3-1 victory helped Man City win a ticket to the FA Cup quarter-finals. In the immediate future, both teams will focus on the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 taking place next week.
Results of some other notable matches in round 5 of the FA Cup:
Wrexham 2-4 Chelsea
Mansfield Town 1-2 Arsenal
