Manchester City advance to Carabao Cup semifinals, Guardiola's rotation bears fruit at Etihad

Manchester City solidified their status as strong title contenders after securing a spot in the semifinals of the English League Cup (Carabao Cup) 2025/26. Playing at Etihad Stadium on Thursday, December 18, 2025, early morning WIB, The Citizens defeated Brentford 2-0, maintaining their winning momentum amid a congested fixture schedule.

Rayan Cherki and Savinho proved decisive. Their goals not only secured the win but extended Pep Guardiola's impressive record to six consecutive victories across all competitions. This strongly signals that City's squad depth is once again their key weapon this season.

Guardiola made significant rotations with seven changes to the starting lineup compared to the Premier League match against Crystal Palace. The decision proved justified, showcasing the flexibility of the City machine. 

One player entrusted from the start was Oscar Bobb. The young winger threatened immediately in the 14th minute with a run ending in a shot on goal, though Brentford goalkeeper Hakon Valdimarsson managed to save it. Unfortunately, Bobb had to be substituted due to Injury and was replaced by Phil Foden.

City faced a dangerous situation when Abdukodir Khusanov brought down Kevin Schade. Fortunately for the hosts, the referee only issued a yellow card – a crucial moment that could have changed the game.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 32nd minute. Following a corner situation, Valdimarsson parried the ball towards Rayan Cherki outside the penalty box. The young French midfielder calmly controlled the ball before firing a shot into the top corner. The score changed to 1-0 for City.

Brentford tried to respond early in the second half. Efforts from Kristoffer Ajer and Michael Kayode forced City goalkeeper James Trafford into important saves. However, the pressure didn't last long.

City secured their place in the semifinals in the 67th minute. Savinho embarked on a solo run down the left flank before unleashing a shot that deflected off Ajer's foot. The ball changed direction and found the net, sealing City's 2-0 lead.

After taking a two-goal lead, Manchester City completely controlled the tempo until the final whistle without facing significant pressure. 

Lineups

Manchester City: James Trafford; Nico O'Reilly, Nathan Ake, Abdukodir Khusanov, Rico Lewis; Tijjani Reijnders, Nico Gonzalez; Oscar Bobb, Rayan Cherki, Savinho; Divine Mukasa.

Brentford: Hakon Valdimarsson; Michael Kayode, Sepp van den Berg, Nathan Collins, Kristoffer Ajer, Rico Henry; Mathias Jensen, Vitaly Janelt, Yehor Yarmoliuk; Kevin Schade, Mikkel Damsgaard.