Manchester City achieved a crucial 2-0 victory over Newcastle United in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final at St James' Park on January 13, 2026. The win puts Pep Guardiola's side in a strong position ahead of the return leg at the Etihad. The breakthrough came in the 53rd minute when new signing Antoine Semenyo, who joined Manchester City from Bournemouth for £62.5 million just days prior, scored the opening goal. This marked Semenyo's second goal in as many games for City, following his debut goal in an FA Cup match. The match, however, was not without controversy, particularly involving VAR. Semenyo had a second goal controversially disallowed in the 63rd minute after a lengthy review process, which lasted approximately five to six minutes. The VAR decision ruled out the goal due to Erling Haaland being in an offside position and deemed to be impacting the ability of a Newcastle defender. Despite the disallowed goal, City secured their two-goal advantage in the 98th minute when substitute Rayan Cherki added a second goal. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe had expressed dissatisfaction before the game regarding a rule change that allowed Semenyo to play despite having already featured for Bournemouth in the competition earlier in the season. His concerns were indeed realised with Semenyo's impactful performance. The result gives Manchester City a significant edge as they pursue a spot in the Carabao Cup final.