Manchester City Overcomes Bournemouth to Secure FA Cup Semi-Final Spot

Cityzens Rally from Behind to Reach Seventh Consecutive FA Cup Semi-Final

Manchester City kept their FA Cup dominance intact with a hard-fought 2-1 comeback victory over Bournemouth in the quarter-finals. Despite trailing at halftime, Pep Guardiola’s men responded emphatically in the second half to set up a semi-final clash against Nottingham Forest.

A Stuttering Start for City

Man City controlled possession from the outset but struggled to convert their chances in the first half. Their frustration was compounded when Erling Haaland missed a crucial penalty, allowing Bournemouth to gain confidence. The hosts capitalized on their opportunity, taking the lead when Evanilson deflected Justin Kluivert’s goal-bound shot past Ederson just before the break.

Second-Half Revival: Haaland and Marmoush Seal the Comeback

Guardiola’s tactical adjustments at halftime proved decisive. The introduction of Nico O’Reilly provided City with much-needed creativity, and within minutes of the restart, he assisted Haaland, who made up for his earlier miss with a clinical finish.

City continued to press forward, and just past the hour mark, O’Reilly was at it again, setting up substitute Omar Marmoush, who slotted home the winning goal. Haaland was forced off due to injury, but City managed to see out the game with composure, keeping their dream of a domestic double alive.

Player Ratings & Key Performers

Bournemouth (4-2-3-1)

• Best Performer: Kepa Arrizabalaga (8.1) – Despite conceding twice, the goalkeeper made several crucial saves to keep Bournemouth in the game.
• Underwhelming Display: Antoine Semenyo (4.1) – Struggled to impact the game and was largely ineffective on the left flank.
• Goal Scorer: Evanilson (7.6) – Opportunistic in the first half, giving Bournemouth a lead they couldn’t hold.

Manchester City (4-2-3-1)

• Man of the Match: Nico O’Reilly (8.5) – A game-changing substitute, providing two key assists in City’s comeback.
• Top Performers: Bernardo Silva (8.2), Kevin De Bruyne (7.8) – The midfield duo dictated play and kept City in control.
• Decisive Moment: Omar Marmoush (7.3) – Came on for the injured Haaland and secured the winner with a composed finish.

What’s Next for City?

Manchester City will now turn their attention to the semi-finals, where they face Nottingham Forest. With their FA Cup streak intact and their squad depth proving vital, Guardiola’s men remain on course for another successful campaign.

Can Nottingham Forest pose a real threat to City’s FA Cup ambitions? Or will the reigning champions march on to yet another final?