Manchester City host Newcastle United tonight at the Etihad Stadium for the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final. With a 2-0 aggregate lead from the first leg, Pep Guardiola’s side are heavy favourites to secure their place at Wembley agaionst Arsenal, who beat Chelsea on Tuesday night.
City enter this clash needing to shake off a weekend of frustration after squandering a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Tottenham. Despite their recent defensive wobbles, their home record against the Magpies is formidable; they have won their last 11 home meetings against Newcastle by a staggering aggregate score of 37-3.
Newcastle, the current holders of the Carabao Cup, face a monumental task. Eddie Howe’s squad is grappling with an injury crisis, missing key figures like Bruno Guimarães and Joelinton. Coming off a bruising 4-1 defeat to Liverpool, the Magpies must find a way to score at least twice at a ground where they haven’t won since 2014.
Team News & Key Players
Man City: New signing Antoine Semenyo has been a revelation with four goals in his last five games. However, Rayan Cherki is a doubt following a knock, and Marc Guehi remains ineligible.
Newcastle: Sven Botman returns to the defense, but the midfield lacks its usual bite without Guimarães. Harvey Barnes and Anthony Gordon remain the primary threats on the counter.
Prediction & Betting Advice
While Newcastle will likely play with desperate intensity, City’s control at the Etihad usually smothers such efforts. Expect Guardiola to prioritize possession to kill the tie early.
Prediction: Man City 2-0 Newcastle (City to win 4-0 on aggregate).
Betting Tip: Man City -1 Handicap. City have won all their Carabao Cup games this season by a two-goal margin.
Player Prop: Antoine Semenyo to score anytime. He scored in the first leg and is currently City’s most clinical finisher.
Value Bet: Under 2.5 Goals. With a 2-0 lead, City may shift into “game management” mode in the second half.
