Antoine Semenyo Makes a Dream FA Cup Debut for Manchester City
Manchester City’s FA Cup campaign began with a record-breaking display as they defeated Exeter City 10-1 in the third round. The match provided a fairy-tale moment for Antoine Semenyo, who marked his debut with a goalscoring strike, signaling a compelling start to his time at the club. The winger, signed to bolster Pep Guardiola’s attacking options, struck early to set the tone for a night that would see City register their biggest FA Cup win since 1987.
Rodri Ends a Two-Year Goal Drought
Midfield anchor Rodri contributed with a moment that will stick in the mind of City fans for some time. The Spaniard found the net for the first time in 20 months, adding a psychological boost to Guardiola’s squad and reminding supporters of his knack for arriving late in the box. His goal helped cement the home side’s dominance as Exeter struggled to find rhythm against a relentless City side.
Rico Lewis’ Double Sinks Exeter
Rico Lewis, already a rising star, added a brace to his growing tally for the season. The youngster showcased technique and composure beyond his years, finishing calmly to extend City’s lead and reaffirm his status as a versatile threat from midfield and attack. Lewis’ goals were part of a broader team performance that demonstrated City’s depth and bench strength when most teams would be stretched thin by such a heavy scoreline.
A Comprehensive City Showcase
The match quickly evolved into a demonstration of City’s attacking breadth. With the ball moving quickly and accurately through the lines, Exeter were overwhelmed by a relentless tempo. City’s wingers and full-backs overlapped with precision, creating space for runners in behind and drawing the visitors’ defence out of shape. The result was a carnival of goals that reflected Guardiola’s philosophy in its most expansive form on a brisk FA Cup night in Manchester.
Antoine Semenyo’s Impact Beyond the Scoreline
Beyond the headlines surrounding Semenyo’s debut goal, the performance offered a glimpse of how City might deploy him in different systems. His movement, willingness to press high, and instinct for finding the back of the net added a fresh dynamic to City’s forward line. While the scoreboard dominated the conversation, Semenyo’s all-round contribution hinted at a bright longevity to his spell with the club, giving Guardiola more options in the attacking third.
Looking Ahead
City’s emphatic win will be welcomed as a statement of intent in domestic cup competition. The FA Cup, often a proving ground for squad players and young prospects, became a showcase for City’s depth and tactical flexibility. While the result is extraordinary, Guardiola will likely focus on maintaining balance across multiple competitions as the season progresses. Exeter, meanwhile, can take pride in a historic night that for a moment put their club in the spotlight against one of Europe’s most feared outfits.
Bottom Line
Manchester City’s 10-1 triumph over Exeter is a landmark FA Cup victory that will be remembered for Semenyo’s debut goal, Rodri’s long-awaited strike, and Lewis’ two goals. It underscored City’s collective strength and the remarkable depth Pep Guardiola has at his disposal as the season advances.
