Pep Guardiola’s FA Cup hopes rested on Nico O’Reilly, who delivered just in time after a tough match against Plymouth.
With only 15 minutes remaining, the score was tied, and Plymouth Argyle, from the Championship, were close to causing another huge FA Cup upset, following their previous victory over Liverpool.
Teenager Nico O’Reilly, a local talent among stars, scored his second goal, bringing relief to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
Plymouth fans, however, were disappointed as O’Reilly’s goals ended their FA Cup dream.
For seven minutes, Plymouth led against the Premier League champions, thanks to Maxi Talovierov’s memorable header.
But just before halftime, O’Reilly met a free kick from Kevin De Bruyne, leveling the score.
Plymouth’s goalkeeper, Conor Hazard, showed moments of brilliance, including a save from De Bruyne’s strike shortly before City’s first goal.
However, earlier, Ilkay Gundogan’s powerful shot for City hit the post when the game was still scoreless.
Plymouth’s defense also played a crucial role, with Maxi Talovierov deflecting a shot from Phil Foden.
Despite some heroic saves from Hazard, City’s pressure mounted.
Plymouth had previously stunned Liverpool in the FA Cup, becoming a popular underdog story.
Guardiola’s visible frustration highlighted the tension of the match, as Plymouth’s determined defense, led by Maxi Talovierov and Nikola Katic, held strong.
Plymouth took a surprise lead in the 37th minute from Matthew Sorinola’s corner, headed in by Maxi Talovierov.
The 8,000 Plymouth fans celebrated wildly, dreaming of another FA Cup upset.
However, O’Reilly’s first goal before halftime changed the momentum.
In the second half, City dominated, and it seemed inevitable that they would score again.
Hazard made a good save to deny De Bruyne, and Rico Lewis came close with a volley.
The game mirrored Plymouth’s resilient defense against Liverpool in the previous round, but this time, the ending would be different.
Guardiola brought on Erling Haaland in the second half to break the deadlock.
Hazard made an incredible double save from Haaland and Bernardo Silva, keeping Plymouth in the game with 15 minutes left.
But shortly after, City broke through.
From a corner by Phil Foden, O’Reilly scored his second goal, finally giving City the lead.
De Bruyne then added a third goal in the final moments, securing Manchester City’s place in the next round after a hard-fought victory.
Marcus Bellamy