Manchester City booked their place in the EFL Cup semifinals after producing a commanding performance to eliminate Brentford with a 2-0 victory on Tuesday night. Pep Guardiola’s side controlled proceedings from start to finish, underlining their dominance in domestic cup competitions and keeping their hopes of silverware firmly alive.
City started the game on the front foot, dictating the tempo with crisp passing and relentless pressing that left Brentford struggling to settle. The breakthrough arrived midway through the first half when summer signing Rayan Cherki once again proved his growing importance to Guardiola’s system. The French playmaker showcased his composure and quality inside the box, finishing clinically to give City a deserved lead.
Brentford attempted to respond after the break, showing greater intent and physicality, but City’s defensive organisation remained solid. Guardiola’s men absorbed the pressure calmly before regaining control of possession.
The visitors’ resistance was finally broken in the latter stages, as City doubled their advantage to put the tie beyond doubt and silence any hopes of a Brentford comeback. Cherki’s performance stood out on a night filled with positives for the reigning Premier League champions.
