

Manchester City


City of Salford
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0.00
Expected Goals (xG)
0.00
Passing by
587 (92%)
Accurate passes
79 (56%)
Turn off the spoiler to see the events of the match
1
G
James Trafford
7.3
21
d
Rayan Ait-Nouri
6.6
68
d
Max Alleyne
6.7
5
d
John Stones (C)
7.3
45
d
Abdukodir Khusanov
7.0
14
M
Nico Gonzalez
7.3
82
M
Rico Lewis
7.0
10
M
Ryan Cherki
6.9
4
M
Tijjani Reijnders
6.5
47
M
Phil Foot
6.5
7
F
Omar Marmoush
6.2
1
G
Matthew Young
7.0
29
M
Luke Garbutt (C)
7.3
d
Alfie Dorrington
6′
28
d
Zach Awe
6.6
17
M
Josh Austerfield
6.0
15
d
Brandon Cooper
6.5
8
M
Jorge Grant
6.6
7
M
Ben Woodburn
7.2
M
Rosario Longelo
F
Kelly Never
26
F
Ryan Graydon
6.3
No ranking data available for this league
Manchester City progressed to the next round of the FA Cup with a routine 2-0 win over League Two side Salford City at the Etihad Stadium. Goals from Julián Álvarez and Phil Foden secured victory for the Premier League champions on Valentine’s Day.
Manchester City booked their place in the FA Cup on Saturday, defeating Salford City 2-0. The hosts produced a determined defensive effort from their lower league opponents.
Premier League leaders Manchester City began their FA Cup campaign with high expectations. Salford City, a League Two club, arrived at the Etihad as massive underdogs, hoping for an upset.
The game started with City immediately securing control. They dominated possession, pushing Salford deep. The visitors defended resolutely, denying clear paths to goal.
The city created half chances; Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden tested goalkeeper Alex Cairns. Cairns made routine stops. Salford defender Ryan Watson was booked in the 34th minute for a foul on Rodri.
The tie was finally broken shortly before half-time. In the 45+2 minute, Julián Álvarez launched a loose ball. He drilled a powerful shot over Cairns to give City a crucial lead.
The goal gave City a vital lead at the break. Salford needed to offer more offensively. Both sides regrouped, with City looking to extend their lead.
Manchester City started the second half with renewed intensity, pushing for a second goal. They moved the ball quickly. Salford defended bravely but fatigue caused gaps in their formation.
The insurance goal came in the 68th minute from Phil Foden. Kevin De Bruyne threaded a precise pass into the path of Foden. Foden curled a superb shot into the far corner, doubling City’s lead.
With a two-goal cushion, City made tactical substitutions. Salford tried to push forward but struggled for meaningful chances. His only shot on goal was easily saved.
Manchester City finished with superior statistics, reflecting their control. They recorded an expected goals (xG) of 2.4, compared to Salford’s 0.3. City had 21 shots (9 on target) and 72% possession.
The win secures City progression to the FA Cup, keeping their trophy aspirations alive. Salford City can walk away proud, having fought hard. This cup race provided valuable experience.

