Nico O Reilly’s double fires Manchester City to a 3-1 victory over Plymouth, securing a place in the FA Cup quarter-finals. Discover the match highlights here.
Introduction:
Manchester City reserved their spot in the FA Cup quarter-finals for the seventh year running, coming from behind to defeat Plymouth Argyle 3-1 at the Etihad Stadium.
Teenager Nico O’Reilly was the show’s star, scoring two nicely taken headers before Kevin De Bruyne wrapped up the win in stoppage time. The Championship strugglers had gone ahead with a surprise goal from Maksym Talovyerov, but City’s quality and depth proved too much. See also: Raphinha and Lewandowski Shine as Barcelona Crushed Sevilla 4-1
With Pep Guardiola again rotating his team, City’s young talent came to the fore, proving the club’s phenomenal depth as they pursue multiple honours this season.
A Glowing Opening, But No Landmark Moment
Manchester City controlled possession in the early stages, playing without a natural centre-forward as Phil Foden, Kevin De Bruyne, and James McAtee shared the attacking duties.
City produced the first genuine opportunity when Ilkay Gundogan headed a cross from Bernardo Silva, but Plymouth goalkeeper Conor Hazard saved well. Soon afterwards, Gundogan struck a post with a strong shot.
Plymouth grabs a Surprise Lead
Despite City’s early supremacy, Plymouth developed as the game progressed. The Championship club had already eliminated Brentford and Liverpool on their way to this point, and they again demonstrated their staying power.
A right-wing corner found the imposing Maksym Talovyerov, who climbed highest to rise and headers home and shock the Etihad. The Plymouth supporters on the road were ecstatic as Plymouth scored against the flow of play.
O’Reilly Heads City Level
Manchester City’s reaction was quick. Before the first half reached stoppage time, City had gained a free kick in a bad position. De Bruyne found a great delivery, and O’Reilly glanced a powerful header that Hazrad could only do his best to keep out.
The target was a relief to the home fans and highlighted the 19-year-old Academy graduate’s hunger and desire. It was his second FA Cup goal of the season, after his strike against Salford City.
City Continue to Press
The second half began in much the same way as the first, with City controlling possession and creating opportunities.
Bernardo Silva forced another excellent save from Hazard. Rico Lewis released a stunning volley, but his attempt just cleared the crossbar. With City failing to make the breakthrough, Pep Guardiola looked to his star striker—Erling Haaland was introduced onto the pitch just before the hour mark.
O’Reilly Completes His Brace
Haaland’s entrance instantly caused Plymouth all manner of issues, with the Norwegian’s movement and power troubling their defense.
After a spell of constant pressure, City were awarded a corner in the 74th minute. De Bruyne’s accurate delivery found O’Reilly once more, and the teenager leaped above his marker to head home his second of the game.
It was an assertive performance from the young left-back, demonstrating his versatility and calmness under pressure.
De Bruyne Rounds Off the Win
Plymouth, feeling the FA Cup dream slipping away, committed bodies forward in a bid for an equalizer. That opened up space for City to attack on the break.
Haaland, who had already had one shot repelled, powered into the box before playing a square pass to De Bruyne, who scored from inside a yard out to seal a 3-1 victory in stoppage time.
Key Takeaways: City’s Young Stars Shine Again
Nico O Reilly: A Star in the Making
Two well-taken headers demonstrated his positional awareness and threat from being in the right position to capitalise on key moments. Shone with strength, determination, and technical brilliance playing as a makeshift left-back. Looks set for further first-team chances under Guardiola.
Vitor Reis Impresses on His Etihad Debut
Put Plymouth striker Mustapha Bundu to pace and physical tests. He was calm on the ball and assured in one-on-one situations. A promising beginning to his career in England.
Haaland’s Influence
Though he wasn’t on the score sheet, his influence changed the game. Set up De Bruyne’s goal and panicked the Plymouth defence. A reminder of how vital he is to City’s attack.
Plymouth’s Brave Effort Ends
They fought hard and defended well, but City’s class finally got to them. Can hold their heads high after a historic cup campaign that had them beat Brentford and Liverpool.
What’s Next for City?
Manchester City advanced to the FA Cup quarter-finals, leaving their chances of a second domestic title alive. They return to Premier League action next week with a pivotal game against Nottingham Forest as they press on with their title chase.
For Plymouth, their attention will return to staying up in the Championship, but their FA Cup adventure will be remembered as one of the tournament’s stories.