Manchester City advanced to the Carabao Cup semi-finals after a dominant 2-0 victory over Brentford at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night, December 17, 2025. Rayan Cherki's stunning first-half goal set the tone for a City side that controlled the match from start to finish. Savinho added a second in the second half to seal the win and secure City's place in the last four for the first time since they last won the competition in 2021.

The 22-year-old Cherki, a summer signing from Lyon, has had an injury-disrupted start to his City career but is now beginning to find his form. His performance against Brentford was a testament to his growing influence within the team. Cherki's goal, a blistering strike into the top corner in the 32nd minute, was a moment of pure brilliance and highlighted his technical ability. It was his fourth goal in a City shirt.

City manager Pep Guardiola made seven changes to the team that beat Crystal Palace 3-0 on Sunday. Despite the changes, City maintained their attacking intent, with Savinho and Oscar Bobb injecting pace and creativity into the forward line. Bobb, however, was forced off early with a hamstring injury, replaced by Phil Foden.

Brentford, who also made six changes from their draw with Leeds, struggled to gain a foothold in the game. They felt they should have had a red card for Abdukodir Khusanov's challenge on Kevin Schade, but referee Sam Barrott only issued a yellow card. Kristoffer Ajer forced a good save from City goalkeeper James Trafford at the start of the second half, but Brentford otherwise lacked attacking threat.

Cherki continued to be at the heart of City's best moves, and it was his moment of magic that broke the deadlock. After Valdimarsson collided with Schade attempting to clear Divine Mukasa's corner, the ball fell to Cherki, who side-stepped Mikkel Damsgaard before unleashing an unstoppable shot.

Savinho doubled City's lead midway through the second half with a deflected shot after a quick break. The Brazilian winger has been inconsistent this season, but his goal capped a lively performance.

Guardiola praised his team's growing control and composure throughout the season. He also gave a debut to Charlie Gray, a 19-year-old who came on as a late substitute for Foden.

Manchester City will now look ahead to the Carabao Cup semi-finals, where they will aim to continue their quest for a record-extending ninth title.