Ghanaian forward Antoine Selorm Semenyo continues to enjoy a remarkable start to his Manchester City career after producing another commanding display in the club’s 2-0 victory over Newcastle United, earning his second consecutive Man of the Match award. The performance further underlined his rapid impact at the Etihad Stadium and his growing importance in Pep Guardiola’s squad.
Just days after being named Man of the Match on his debut for City in an FA Cup fixture, Semenyo once again rose to the occasion on a major stage. His decisive contribution helped City secure a crucial away win at St James’ Park in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final, putting the reigning champions firmly in control of the tie ahead of the return leg.
The encounter was a closely contested affair, particularly in the opening half, as Newcastle United set up to frustrate Guardiola’s side. The hosts pressed aggressively, limited space between the lines, and denied City the rhythm and fluency they are accustomed to. Despite dominating possession, City found it difficult to create clear-cut chances, and the first half ended goalless.
Newcastle’s compact defensive shape forced City to rely on patience and precision, while the atmosphere inside St James’ Park added to the intensity of the contest. Semenyo, however, remained a constant outlet for the visitors, using his physical strength and intelligent movement to stretch the Newcastle defence and create space for his teammates.
The momentum of the match shifted shortly after the interval, and it was Semenyo who made the difference. Eight minutes into the second half, City finally broke the deadlock through a moment of sharp awareness and composure from the Ghanaian forward.
Jeremy Doku delivered a dangerous ball into the box, which took a slight deflection off Bernardo Silva before reaching the far post. Semenyo reacted quicker than the Newcastle defenders, positioning his body well and powering the ball into the net to give City a vital breakthrough away from home.
The goal not only silenced the home crowd but also gave City the control they had been seeking. From that moment, Guardiola’s side looked more assured, moving the ball with greater confidence and dictating the tempo of the game. Semenyo’s presence at the top of the attack continued to trouble Newcastle, as his work rate and physicality created problems throughout the second half.
Beyond his goal, Semenyo delivered a complete performance that highlighted why City moved quickly to secure his services. He pressed defenders relentlessly, tracked back to support his teammates, and linked up effectively with City’s midfield and wide players. His ability to combine strength with technical quality has already made him a fan favourite among City supporters.
Newcastle attempted to respond by pushing players forward in search of an equaliser, but City’s defensive organisation remained solid. As the hosts committed more bodies forward, spaces began to open up, allowing City to exploit the gaps on the counterattack.
City eventually sealed the victory late in the game through substitute Rayan Cherki, who found the net in stoppage time to give the visitors a comfortable two-goal cushion heading into the second leg. While Cherki’s goal provided the finishing touch, it was Semenyo who once again stood out as the defining figure of the match.
The Ghanaian forward’s performance earned him back-to-back Man of the Match awards, an impressive achievement considering he has only just arrived at the club. In just two appearances for City, Semenyo has already recorded three goal involvements, scoring twice and providing one assist. Such an immediate impact is a testament to both his talent and his ability to adapt quickly to Guardiola’s demanding tactical system.
Semenyo’s rise has been closely followed by football fans in Ghana, where his success at one of Europe’s elite clubs is seen as a source of national pride. His performances also reflect the growing influence of Ghanaian players in top European leagues, as more talents continue to make their mark on the global stage.
For Guardiola, Semenyo’s form offers an additional attacking option at a crucial stage of the season. With City competing on multiple fronts, including domestic cups and league challenges, having a forward capable of delivering decisive moments in big matches provides valuable depth and flexibility.
Attention now turns to the highly anticipated Manchester derby against Manchester United this weekend. The fixture represents another major test for Semenyo, who will be eager to maintain his momentum and secure a place in Guardiola’s starting lineup. With confidence high and recent performances backing his case, the Ghanaian forward has given his manager plenty to think about.
City’s commanding position in the Carabao Cup semi-final places them firmly on course for another domestic final. However, Guardiola is likely to remain cautious, knowing that knockout ties can quickly swing on fine margins. Still, with players like Semenyo delivering when it matters most, City have every reason to be optimistic.
As the season progresses, Semenyo’s early impact suggests he is more than ready for the pressures and expectations that come with playing for one of the world’s top clubs. If his current form is anything to go by, the Ghanaian forward could prove to be one of City’s standout signings and a key figure in their pursuit of silverware.
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