By Hussain Maskati. Manchester City came from behind to defeat Southampton 2–1 at Wembley yesterday. Two late goals not only sent them into the FA Cup final, but also ended the Championship side's 20-match unbeaten run. Pep Guardiola's side dominated possession for long stretches but struggled
Manchester City came from behind to defeat Southampton 2–1 at Wembley yesterday. Two late goals not only sent them into the FA Cup final, but also ended the Championship side’s 20-match unbeaten run.
Pep Guardiola’s side dominated possession for long stretches but struggled to break down a disciplined Southampton defence in a frustrating first half. Their best opening fell to Omar Marmoush, whose near-post effort was well saved by goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, as Saints held firm and limited clear chances.
City increased the pressure after the break, with Peretz again called into action to deny Savinho and Nico Gonzalez as the Premier League leaders pushed for a breakthrough. However, it was Southampton who struck first in stunning fashion. With just over ten minutes remaining, Caspar Jander won possession and fed Finn Azaz, who curled a superb effort into the top corner from the edge of the box to give Saints a shock 1–0 lead in the 79th minute.
The lead, though, lasted only moments. City responded almost immediately, with Jeremy Doku cutting inside and seeing his effort deflect into the net to restore parity and swing momentum back in their favour.
With extra time looming, City completed the turnaround in style. Gonzalez, who had threatened throughout, unleashed a powerful strike from distance that flew into the top corner, leaving Peretz with no chance and sealing City’s place in a fourth consecutive FA Cup final.
For Southampton, it was a cruel end to a resilient performance, while City remain on course for a domestic treble.
City will now await the winner of today’s other semi-final between Chelsea and Leeds, which kicks off at 5pm Bahrain time, to determine their opponent at Wembley.
