Spurred on by the memory of their late champion Bernardo Silva, Manchester City defeated Chelsea 1-0 to guarantee their place in the FA Cup final.
In Short
Victory at Wembley
The atmosphere at Wembley was electric as City clinched their place in the final after last season’s victory over Manchester United. It was a courageous performance, particularly after Manchester City were eliminated from the Champions League by Pep Guardiola’s team in a devastating penalty shootout against Real Madrid earlier in the week.
Both teams had their chances, but for Bernardo, it was a moment of joy to claim victory, especially as he was among the unfortunate players who missed opportunities earlier in the week.
What Happened
Manchester City’s journey to Wembley has been special over the past 13 years, and the anticipation was high just 90 minutes away from kick-off in the FA Cup final showdown. While City played a grueling two-hour Champions League football against Real Madrid midweek, Chelsea had five days to prepare, their only chance at silverware this season.
Still, it was City who made the early breakthrough, with Ferran Torres scoring from Kevin De Bruyne’s cross in the semifinals at Wembley.
Manchester City’s solid defense
Chelsea had their moments, but John Stones and Manuel Akanji’s solid defense, coupled with Mauricio Pochettino’s tactics, thwarted their attempts. The first real chance came through Phil Foden, whose shot from outside the box tested Chelsea’s goalkeeper. However, Foden’s efforts were thwarted by a tight angle.
City’s academy graduate Palmer, dangerous for Chelsea since his summer switch, created opportunities but failed to convert, with his shot saved by Ortega. Chelsea increased their pressure as the match went on, but City’s defense held strong, and they ultimately won a vital game.
Key Players
Despite De Bruyne’s injury scare after our match against Real, he delivered yet another stellar performance. Throughout the match, the Belgian midfielder was everywhere. In the closing seconds, he even made a lunging move to deliver the vital cross that resulted in the game’s lone goal. And amidst the electrifying atmosphere at the Etihad, there was still energy in him to celebrate a big win and more silverware.
Together 🩵#ManCity pic.twitter.com/Yf6R0d9nsu
— Manchester City (@ManCity) April 20, 2024
Pep Guardiola’s Reaction
“It’s mentally tough to bounce back. The way Rodri played today, Kyle, who has been injured for weeks, I don’t know how they did it.
“We want to play football. We love to play football, but it’s too much.
Also read : “Manchester City vs Real Madrid Champions League: City’s Heartbreak in Penalty Shootout Exit”
“We protect our trophies. We’ll stay right here.
“They threw everything at us. It was a tough game. [I thought] Extra time, no please.”
photos source : X
