Manchester City are heading to the EFL Cup semifinals for the first time since the 2020-21 season after a comfortable 2-0 victory over Brentford. Goals from Rayan Cherki and Savinho sealed the win, extending Manchester City's winning streak to six games across all competitions.
Cherki opened the scoring with a stunning strike in the 32nd minute, following a corner kick. After the ball was cleared to the edge of the box, Cherki cut inside and unleashed an unstoppable shot into the top corner. This was his 11th goal involvement of the season, with four goals and seven assists. Guardiola praised Cherki, stating, "He's exceptional... It was a fantastic, fantastic goal".
Savinho secured the victory with a deflected shot in the 67th minute. He carried the ball to the left edge of the box, and his shot took a fortunate deflection off Brentford defender Kristoffer Ajer, looping over goalkeeper Hakon Valdimarsson. This was Savinho's second goal of the season, both of which have come in the EFL Cup.
Manchester City controlled the game, limiting Brentford to few opportunities. While City produced 15 shots, they only generated an expected goals (xG) figure of 0.66, while Brentford had just three attempts, worth 0.1 xG. Despite the relatively low xG, City always appeared in control after Cherki's opener.
Guardiola made seven changes to the side that beat Crystal Palace in the Premier League. One of those changes, Savinho, made the most of his opportunity. He ended the match with team-high totals for shots, successful dribbles, touches in the box, and duels won.
Oscar Bobb, another player brought into the starting lineup, had City's first shot on target in the 15th minute, but was later forced off the field due to injury. Phil Foden replaced Bobb. Abdukodir Khusanov was perhaps fortunate to only receive a yellow card for a foul on Kevin Schade.
Brentford struggled to create any sustained threat, and City's defense remained solid throughout the match. Brentford have struggled for away goals as they haven't scored an away goal from open play since October.
Manchester City will now look to continue their strong run of form as they face West Ham United in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Brentford will travel to face Wolverhampton Wanderers.
