Newcastle 0-2 Man City: Antoine Semenho was once again the man of the hour for Josep Guardiola’s side as they took a big step towards Wembley against the Carabao Cup holders.
Antoine Semenyo scores the only goal at St James’ Park (Image: Getty Images)
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe was right to fear Antoine Semenyo ahead of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Manchester City. The £62.5million man had a big say at St James’ Park on Tuesday night as Josep Guardiola’s side booked their place in the final.
The Ghanaian international, who completed a blockbuster move to the Etihad last week, made a dream start to his time at City with a goal in a 10-1 FA Cup win over Exeter. Semenyo was back in form on Tyneside, scoring at the back post after a cross from Jeremy Doku and a deft touch from Bernardo Silva.
He could have hooked another one from the corner and doubled home, only for the strikeout to be canceled due to a lengthy VAR check. When Semenyo put the ball into the goal, Erling Haaland was adjudged to have interfered with the line from an offside position.
And while Semenyo may be unhappy with the decision, the bigger dissatisfaction will undoubtedly come from Newcastle head coach Howe.
read more: Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea learn their fate in FA Cup 4th round drawread more: Alan Shearer slams Manchester manager search after quitting FA Cup: ‘There is a problem’
He had struck out in a rule change that allowed Semenyo to even take to the pitch at St James’ Park. The forward featured for Bournemouth earlier in the competition and would have previously qualified for the cup.
Howe said before the game: “Yeah, it’s good to know that the rules have changed after we found out we signed him. I have to say this is probably one of the rule changes that I can’t support at this point.”
“But Antoine had a great season. I’m a big fan of his and he scored on his debut. Fair play to him. I think Man City have signed a very, very good player.”
Semenyo proved to be City’s headliner at St James’ Park, but his team-mate still had a lot to say. Doc also shone, causing Newcastle problems throughout the night with his trickery and explosive pace.
In the end, substitute Rayan Cherki sealed the victory in the closing stages by converting Rayan Eyt Nouri’s cross into the goal.
Manchester City’s Antoine Semenyo has scored two goals in two games (Image: Getty Images)
Who was named Man of the Match between Newcastle and Man City? Share your thoughts in the comments section below
But the hosts also had their moments. Yoan Wissa drew a good save from James Trafford and captain Bruno Guimarães also beat the woodwork with a powerful shot, but to no avail. Nick Woltemade also should have done better in the second half.
Howe’s men have a difficult task ahead of them as they aim to return to Wembley and retain their coveted title, with a rare win at the Etihad Stadium in early February. And to Howe’s disdain, Semenyo should be able to play again.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive Mirror Football content every day. Community members also receive special offers, promotions, and advertisements from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can always check out. If you are interested, please read our privacy notice.
Sky Sports Premier League and EFL package discounts
£49
£35
sky
Get the deal here
Sky has reduced the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £336 on their bill and offering more than 1,400 live matches from Premier League, EFL and more.
Sky will broadcast at least 215 live Premier League matches next season, with an increase of up to 100 more.
