The Final Goal

Before the game, Man City had already suffered 15 losses in all competitions this season, alongside 9 draws. Over the past two months, they have lost 5 of their last 10 matches, winning only 4. Despite their poor form, Man City was still considered the more substantial team than Bournemouth in the FA Cup quarterfinals. With a significantly superior lineup, Guardiola’s men overcame Bournemouth to reach the FA Cup semifinals, even though they had to play away from home.

On the other hand, Bournemouth, managed by Andoni Iraola, has had an impressive season, currently sitting 10th in the Premier League and still harboring hopes of qualifying for European competitions next season. Bournemouth could also take confidence from their surprising 2-1 victory over Man City at Vitality Stadium in November of the previous year. This result gave them reason to believe they could overcome Man City again, especially with the home advantage. However, in the face of a determined Man City team desperate for a title to salvage their “poor” season, Bournemouth had to settle for defeat in the quarterfinals.

The match began with intense action. Both Bournemouth and Man City were eager to push forward when they had possession of the ball. Man City had a chance to open the scoring in the 13th minute when they were awarded a penalty after the referee ruled that Tyler Adams had handled the ball in the penalty area. However, Erling Haaland was unable to beat goalkeeper Kepa from the spot. Haaland also missed another clear opportunity in the 15th minute. After squandering these chances, Man City paid the price.

In the 21st minute, after a return pass from Kluvert, Evanilson was in the right place to finish close range and give Bournemouth the lead. Following the goal, Man City tried to push forward but found themselves completely locked out by Bournemouth's solid defense. The first half ended with a 1-0 lead for the home side.

At the start of the second half, Pep Guardiola decided to bolster his attack by bringing on young talent Nico O'Reilly in place of center-back Khusanov. Just four minutes after his introduction, the 20-year-old delivered a perfect assist for Haaland to equalize in the 49th minute. In the 61st minute, Haaland picked up an injury and was replaced by Omar Marmoush. Just two minutes later, the Egyptian forward made an impact by scoring to give Man City a 2-1 lead. The assist for Marmoush’s goal came from none other than Nico O'Reilly. Bournemouth tried to respond with some opportunities but failed to capitalize on them. Man City also created several chances but couldn't extend their lead. The match ended 2-1 in favor of Manchester City, securing their place in the FA Cup semifinals.

With this victory over Bournemouth, Man City has won all 7 of their FA Cup quarterfinals in recent years and reached the semifinals in 6 consecutive seasons—an achievement no other English club has ever accomplished. This win will undoubtedly give Pep Guardiola’s team a boost in confidence as they aim to improve their position in the Premier League standings, and potentially secure a spot in the Champions League next season.