Manchester City have reached the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup, after a round of 16 match that ended on penalties against Brighton. The match, played at the Etihad Stadium, was characterized by an intense exchange of goals: Brighton started the match with two goals, one from Yalcouyé and the other from Rutter, but City responded with two goals from Kovacic and Vitor Reis, bringing the score to 2-2 at the end of normal time. The match then went to penalties, where City prevailed 4-3, thanks to a shot from Cherki and an error from Dunk, while Brighton made mistakes from Kovacic and Ayari.
The result allowed City to advance to the next round, where they will have to face the team whose match against Everton has already been decided. The club's run also saw five further round of 16 matches, including Fleetwood's surprise qualification and Bradford City's victory, added to the quarter-final programme. The match between Everton and Newcastle, which will take place the following day, will conclude the round of 16 calendar of the competition.
City, led by coach Maresca, demonstrated strong resilience, managing to recover twice during the match and maintaining calm in the decisive moments of the penalties. The win confirms the team's solidity in tough competition, while Brighton will have to reflect on their performances and the weaknesses highlighted during the match.
By advancing to the quarter-final round, City are preparing for a new match that could determine their path to the Carabao Cup final. Fans and analysts will await with interest the next match, which promises to be equally enthralling.