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Nico O’Reilly’s two assists helped Manchester City secure a 2-1 comeback victory over Bournemouth in the FA Cup quarter-finals on Sunday. The 20-year-old academy graduate came off the bench at halftime and made an immediate impact, setting up Erling Haaland’s equalizer before creating the winning goal for Omar Marmoush.
Key Moments
City fell behind in the first half when Evanilson scored for Bournemouth after 21 minutes and went to the half-time break leading the tie. Haaland had earlier missed several chances, including a saved penalty. Youngster O’Reilly was introduced at the break and quickly made his mark, delivering a perfect cross for Haaland to tap in at the far post just four minutes into the second half.
After Haaland was forced off with an ankle injury, his replacement Marmoush scored the winner in the 62nd minute. O’Reilly was again involved, cleverly flicking the ball to Marmoush who finished under goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.
O’Reilly’s Impact
Manager Pep Guardiola praised O’Reilly’s performance, highlighting his intelligence and vision. “He played really good and had an impact,” Guardiola said. “In the final third he has vision. He played really good.”
The young midfielder has now contributed three goals and two assists in City’s FA Cup run this season, playing in every match so far. He will likely have more playing time at the end of the season, including when Man City plays the FA Cup’s semifinals against Nottingham Forest in April.
City’s FA Cup Record
The win means Manchester City have reached the FA Cup semi-finals for a record seventh consecutive season, extending their own mark set last year. They will face Nottingham Forest at Wembley in the last four on the weekend of the 24th and 25 of April.
What’s Next for Man City?
City’s next match is against Leicester in the Premier League on Wednesday, April 2nd. They remain in contention for multiple trophies this season, with the FA Cup representing a chance to salvage silverware after an inconsistent league campaign. In the league, they stand in 5th place, 1 point behind Chelsea and 6 behind the PL’s surprise of the season, Nottingham Forest.
