First Leg EFL 2025 Semi-Final Newcastle 0-2 Man City

Manchester City took a major step toward another domestic final with a 2–0 away win over Newcastle United in the First Leg EFL 2025 Carabao Cup semi-final. The match took place at St. James’ Park on Tuesday night and showcased City’s control and experience in knockout football.

Although the first half lacked clear chances, City’s composure after the break proved decisive. As a result, Pep Guardiola’s side now hold a strong advantage heading into the return leg at the Etihad Stadium.

Second-Half Breakthrough

The opening 45 minutes were tight and tactical. Both teams focused on defensive shape rather than attacking risk. Newcastle pressed in short spells, yet failed to create clear openings. Meanwhile, Manchester City dominated possession but rarely tested Nick Pope.

However, the game changed in the 53rd minute. Antoine Semenyo continued his impressive start at City with a sharp finish from close range. The winger reacted quickest inside the box to convert a well-worked move, silencing the home crowd and shifting momentum in City’s favour during the First Leg EFL 2025.

Semenyo nearly doubled his tally later on. Unfortunately for City, VAR ruled out the goal after a lengthy review, which caused visible frustration among players and fans alike.

Late Cherki Goal Seals First Leg EFL 2025 Advantage

Newcastle pushed forward in search of an equaliser and came close on several occasions. Bruno Guimarães and Yoane Wissa both struck the woodwork, highlighting the home side’s growing threat.

Despite this pressure, City stayed calm. They controlled the tempo and limited Newcastle’s clear-cut chances. Then, deep into stoppage time, Rayan Cherki delivered the decisive moment.

Breaking forward on the counter, Cherki kept his composure and finished clinically to make it 2–0. That late goal could prove crucial in the context of the First Leg EFL 2026 semi-final tie.

Tactical Balance and Key Performers

City’s dominance after the break reflected Guardiola’s tactical adjustments. Movement between the lines improved, while greater width stretched Newcastle’s defence.

Once again, Semenyo stood out. He became the first Manchester City player in over a decade to score in his first two appearances for the club. His impact added cutting edge when City needed it most.

For Newcastle, Anthony Gordon impressed with his direct running and energy. However, their inability to turn pressure into goals ultimately cost them.

What the First Leg EFL 2025 Result Means

The result leaves Manchester City firmly in control ahead of the second leg. They hold a two-goal aggregate lead and a valuable away clean sheet.

Newcastle now face a daunting task at the Etihad Stadium. They will need a near-perfect performance to keep their cup hopes alive.

For City, this victory once again highlights their pedigree in knockout competitions. They remain efficient, ruthless when required, and capable of delivering in decisive moments.

Heartbreak at the Bridge: Chelsea Fight Back but Fall Short Against Arsenal (First Leg EFL 2025) 💔⚽️

It was a painful night at Stamford Bridge for Chelsea fans. The atmosphere was electric, belief was strong, but Arsenal edged the contest in a dramatic 3–2 defeat in the First Leg EFL 2025.

Chelsea struggled to settle early on. Arsenal looked sharper and more composed from the opening minutes. As a result, the visitors took control quickly. Ben White opened the scoring with a simple header, catching Chelsea cold. Soon after, Viktor Gyökeres doubled Arsenal’s lead following a costly defensive lapse.

At that point, the tie looked to be slipping away. However, Chelsea refused to fold.

Alejandro Garnacho changed the game. His first goal reignited hope inside the Bridge. Then came the second. Suddenly, momentum shifted and belief surged as Chelsea dragged themselves level in the First Leg EFL 2025 encounter.

The comeback, though, was short-lived. Arsenal responded with a decisive blow. Martin Zubimendi found space and finished calmly to restore their lead at 3–2. Despite late pressure and relentless pushing from Chelsea, the equaliser never arrived.

This defeat hurts. The fight was there. The crowd was there. Yet the fine margins proved costly. Defensive concentration and clinical finishing made the difference on the night.

Still, the tie is far from over. The First Leg EFL 2025 showed Chelsea’s resilience and attacking potential. With that Garnacho energy from the first whistle in the second leg, anything remains possible.

Keep the faith, Blues. 💙
We fall. We rise. We rebuild.

⚽️ #ChelseaFC #ChelseaVsArsenal #StamfordBridge #EFL2026 #LondonDerby