Manchester City are one step closer to the Carabao Cup final after securing a 2-0 victory over Newcastle United in the first leg of the semifinals. However, The Citizens could have recorded a more emphatic win if Antoine Semenyo’s goal had not been controversially ruled out by VAR.
The clash at St. James’ Park on Wednesday (14/1/2026) early morning WIB saw City take control, with Semenyo opening the scoring in the 53rd minute and Rayan Cherki sealing the win deep into stoppage time at 90+8.
Semenyo’s Disallowed Goal Sparks Controversy
Semenyo appeared to have doubled City’s advantage in the 63rd minute. Tijjani Reijnders delivered a precise corner, which the Ghanaian winger converted into a goal with a deft knee touch. The moment seemed to confirm City’s dominance and could have set the match beyond Newcastle’s reach.
However, the goal was overturned by VAR due to Erling Haaland being marginally offside at the moment Semenyo’s touch deflected the ball past the goal line. The offside call was extremely tight, prompting a five-minute review that sparked debates among fans, pundits, and even City’s coaching staff.
The disallowed goal left Pep Guardiola visibly frustrated. While acknowledging the precision of VAR technology, he questioned the consistency of its application, particularly compared to earlier Premier League incidents involving City that went unpunished.
Guardiola Expresses Frustration
Guardiola did not hold back when discussing the VAR decision, highlighting what he perceived as inconsistencies in how offside and penalty calls have been handled in recent matches.
“Four officials and VAR couldn’t make the decision, then it goes back to the referee. I understand why in the Premier League, with Fabian Schar and the penalty incidents, VAR said nothing,” Guardiola told Sky Sports.
He also referenced a previous Premier League match against Newcastle in November, where City lost 1-2 despite clear penalty claims for Jeremy Doku being fouled by Malick Thiaw. “I also understand why, during the league game here, the Jeremy Doku penalty wasn’t reviewed. Look again, look again,” Guardiola added.
“But for our second goal tonight, the offside line was almost perfect, down to millimeters. That’s what I don’t understand. However, I’m sure the officials will call me tomorrow to explain why VAR didn’t intervene on the two penalties back in November when the score was still 0-0,” he continued.
Guardiola Questions VAR but Keeps Perspective
Despite his frustration, Guardiola clarified that he wasn’t complaining about VAR in general, but the timing and context of its intervention left him puzzled.
“Today, VAR intervened. Back then, I was waiting for two very clear penalties, but nothing happened. That’s okay. We know how this system works, and it will only make us stronger,” he said.
He emphasized that the most important factor is how City respond to challenges on and off the pitch. “This is a semifinal. We are playing for something significant, to reach the final, and situations like this will strengthen us,” Guardiola noted.
City’s Semifinal Advantage
Despite the controversy, the 2-0 result in Newcastle provides Manchester City with a significant advantage heading into the second leg. With the Etihad Stadium set to host the return fixture on February 5, City only need a draw to secure their place in the Carabao Cup final.
The first-leg performance showcased City’s tactical control, attacking depth, and resilience, despite Haaland’s offside and Semenyo’s disallowed goal. Rayan Cherki’s late strike capped a strong performance and ensured that City remain in a commanding position to progress.
Tactical Highlights and Key Performances
Semenyo’s goal, even if later ruled out, illustrated his ability to make decisive contributions from the wing. Tijjani Reijnders’ set-piece delivery was precise, and Cherki’s injury-time finish highlighted City’s persistent attacking threat throughout the match.
The Citizens dominated possession, creating multiple chances and maintaining defensive solidity to prevent Newcastle from mounting significant threats. Guardiola’s tactical adjustments throughout the match reinforced City’s approach of patience and control, even when the VAR decision momentarily disrupted momentum.
Looking Ahead
Manchester City now turn their attention to ensuring a disciplined and controlled performance in the second leg. Guardiola’s comments underline the importance of mental resilience and focus, as City aim to convert their semifinal advantage into a place in the Carabao Cup final.
The controversy surrounding Semenyo’s disallowed goal also reflects wider debates in football regarding VAR’s consistency and impact on the flow of the game. For City, the key takeaway is maintaining composure and exploiting their scoring opportunities without letting offside calls or marginal decisions affect performance.
In conclusion, while Pep Guardiola’s frustration with VAR was evident following Manchester City’s 2-0 victory over Newcastle, the result itself puts City firmly in control of the semifinal. With one eye on the Etihad return leg, Guardiola will look to fine-tune his side’s approach, ensuring that City convert their advantage and advance to the Carabao Cup final with confidence and determination.
ALSO READ :
