Rayan Cherki Thunderbolt Helps Manchester City Down Brentford In EFL Cup | Watch

Manchester City’s Rayan Cherki scores his side’s first goal during the English League Cup soccer match between Manchester City and Brentford in Manchester, England, Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Jon Super)

Manchester City secured their spot in the EFL League Cup semifinals with a 2-0 victory over Brentford, thanks to goals from Rayan Cherki and Savinho for Pep Guardiola’s men.

Cherki opened the scoring for City in the 32nd minute with a wonderous strike from outside the box, after side stepping a charging Bees defender.

City, who won the League Cup four consecutive years under Guardiola from 2018 to 2021, reached the semis for the first time in five seasons as Savinho sealed the win with a goal in the 67th minute.

Guardiola made seven changes to his squad, resting star striker Erling Haaland as his team achieved their sixth consecutive win across all competitions, preparing for the busy festive Premier League schedule.

“We’ve had a lot of games for players like Erling and Ruben Dias, and they need to be ready,” Guardiola said. “We must give them a rest, and we’ve discussed everyone staying connected.”

Abdukodir Khusanov was lucky to only receive a yellow card for his tackle on Kevin Schade, as the German seemed set to score.

Guardiola had to bring in the in-form Phil Foden earlier than planned, with the England international replacing the injured Oscar Bobb after just 20 minutes.

However, it was Cherki who broke through Brentford’s defence in style 10 minutes before half-time. The Frenchman collected a cleared corner at the edge of the box, cut inside onto his right foot, and unleashed an unstoppable shot into the top corner.

City’s second goal came from a fortunate deflection, as Savinho’s shot hit Kristoffer Ajer and looped over Hakon Valdimarsson with 20 minutes left.

City will face Newcastle United in the semifinals, while Chelsea will play the winner of Friday’s match between Premier League leaders Arsenal and Crystal Palace.

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