Man City still has a chance to “win three” this season, as coach Pep Guardiola’s squad advanced to the FA Cup semi-finals following a 2-0 quarter-final win against Newcastle.

After tying 1-1 with Liverpool last weekend to create a three-horse race in the Premier League, Pep Guardiola’s team maintained their huge aim in the 2023-24 season by defeating Newcastle 1-1 and 2-0 at home to go to the FA Cup semi-finals.

Manchester City demonstrated superior strength and total control over Newcastle. According to match statistics, the host team at Etihad Stadium controlled the ball 72% of the time, unleashing 16 shots, while Newcastle only attempted two shots during the game.

Manchester City’s win was restricted in the first half. Following the first whistle, the home team attacked and pressed Newcastle. Silva entered the penalty area from the right side of the midfield in the thirteenth minute. The Portuguese player shot, the ball hit the Newcastle player’s foot, and jumped into the net, surprising goalkeeper Dubravka.

The early opening goal put Manchester City players at ease. Continuing to press the opponent, the home team extended the lead in the 31st minute, after a scenario similar to the initial goal. Silva entered the penalty area and fired a shot from the right. The Newcastle defender swung his leg to block the ball, causing it to alter course and land in the center of the goal. Dubravka flew to the right, leaving him unable to rescue.

After scoring two goals in the first half, Manchester City maintained possession control in the second half, but their offense was not powerful. Because this was a direct encounter and Man City did not need to work hard to score many goals, Guardiola instructed his players to minimize attack pressure in the second half to avoid injuries.

Manchester City dominated the game, enabling Newcastle to have only one shot, as they had in the first half. Newcastle, unable to make a breakthrough, endured a 0-2 setback and watched their opponent gain tickets to continue.

Man City won the historic “treble” in 2022-23, and Guardiola and his players aim to repeat that feat this season. Man City is positioned third in the Premier League following round 28, yet they are only one point behind league leaders Arsenal. Man City has advanced to the Champions League quarterfinals, where they will face Real Madrid, an opponent they defeated last season on their way to the championship crown.