Manchester City have secured a place in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals after a tense fourth-round encounter at the Etihad Stadium ended in a 4-3 penalty shootout victory over Brighton and Hove Albion. Despite failing to take the lead in regular time, Enzo Maresca’s side demonstrated resilience to force the decider after a 2-2 draw. The match highlighted City’s ability to grind out results, with the holders ultimately prevailing through composure from the spot to advance in the competition they are defending.
Cherki seals dramatic penalty win as Rulli stands tall for Maresca’s side
The shootout proved decisive, with Rayan Cherki converting the winning penalty to send City through. A standout performance came from stand-in goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli, who played a pivotal role by saving two penalties from Yasin Ayari and Lewis Dunk. Although Brighton were the superior team for significant portions of the match, their inability to convert chances or hold their nerve in the shootout cost them dearly. The result underscores the high stakes of the competition, where even dominant displays can be undone by a single moment of inaccuracy.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler had previously expressed his ambition to win the Carabao Cup, making this exit a significant setback for the Seagulls. However, the team will have the opportunity for immediate redemption when the two sides clash again in the Premier League on Saturday. For Manchester City, the victory serves as a confidence booster ahead of their league campaign, proving their depth and tactical flexibility under Maresca. The quarter-final draw will determine their next opponents as they continue their pursuit of the trophy.
Source: Sky Sports
