New Manchester City rookie Antoine Semenyo has scored his second goal in two matches in his new colors, moving Pep Guardiola's side closer to the English League Cup final after a 2-0 victory against Newcastle on Tuesday evening.
The Ghanaian striker, who arrived last week from Bournemouth for around $87 million, opened the scoring in the first leg semi-final played at St James’ Park, before the substitute Rayan Cherki don't seal success in added time.
Semenyo had already scored for his debut for City in the crushing 10-1 FA Cup victory over Exeter last weekend.
"The environment here is perfect. Everyone is confident and wants to give their best. I just arrived and they helped me a lot to gain confidence. I feel really welcome, Semenyo said.
The match could have been even more spectacular for the 26-year-old Ghana international, whose superb heel goal was canceled for a very limited offside after intervention by VAR.
Paid recruitment for Manchester City
Already considered one of the best talents in the Premier League with Bournemouth, where he has scored 10 goals this season, Antoine Semenyo appears to be a masterstroke for the Citizens.
"He's not only a very good player, he's also a great boy, which is important for the team", City captain Bernardo Silva told ITV Sport. "He wants to play collectively, help his teammates and have fun. We are delighted with its debut."
Semenyo brings a new dimension to the Mancunian attack as Guardiola aim for four trophies this season.
City in ideal position before the return match
There League Cup could be the first title of the season for Manchester City, who come in with a two-goal lead in next month's second leg at the Etihad Stadium.
Semenyo opened the scoring in the 53rd minute with a point-blank shot. He even thought about doubling the lead on a magnificent heel recovery, but the goal was refused because Erling Haaland was in an offside position.
We had to wait until the 98th minute to see Rayan Cherki score the second goal by sliding the ball under the goalkeeper Nick Pope.
The result leaves Newcastle with their backs against the wall in their attempt to retain the trophy won last year, ending 70 years of national scarcity.
Stakes season
Despite several opportunities to Yoane Wissa and Bruno Guimarães, Newcastle didn't find the flaw.
Manchester City, already eight-time League Cup winners, have won the competition four times under the Guardiola era, most recently in 2021.
Second in the Premier League, six points behind leader Arsenal, City are also well placed in Champions League and qualified for the 4th round of FA Cup.
