Manchester City secured a 4‑3 victory over Brighton in a dramatic Carabao Cup semi‑final that went to penalties, with Argentine goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli making the decisive stop. The match, played at the Etihad Stadium, ended 1‑1 after extra time, but City’s composure under pressure saw them advance to the final after Rulli denied Lewis Dunk’s fifth spot‑kick and also saved Yasin Ayari’s fourth attempt. Brighton had taken the lead twice, first through Malick Yalcouyé and then Georginio Rutter, but City answered with goals from Mateo Kovacic and Vitor Reis.
The game was a showcase of depth for both sides. City made nine changes, including the introduction of Jérémy Doku in the second half, while Brighton used seven substitutions. Despite the heavy rotation, both teams maintained high intensity. City’s strategy, guided by manager Pep Guardiola, relied on pressing high and exploiting spaces, while Brighton, managed by Hürzeler, attempted to counter with quick transitions and set‑piece threats. Brighton’s free‑kick from a corner and a well‑timed cross by Yalcouyé created early chances, but Rulli’s clean sheet kept the hosts in the contest.
Key moments included a controversial goal for Brighton when Yalcouyé’s shot hit the goalkeeper and went in, a decision upheld by the referee in a competition without a VAR. City’s response came from Kovacic, who received a pass from Foden and curled a left‑footed shot past Brighton’s goalkeeper. In the second half, Doku’s arrival injected fresh energy, but Brighton’s defense remained resilient, forcing City into a penalty shootout. The shootout saw City’s Jason Steele block Mateo Kovacic’s penalty, while Rulli’s saves sealed the win.
The victory means Manchester City will face Liverpool in the final, while Brighton will play a league match against City on Saturday. The result also highlights the resilience of both squads after recent defeats: City had lost 2‑1 to Aston Villa in the Premier League, and Brighton had been beaten 2‑0 by Liverpool in the same competition. With the semi‑final win, City’s momentum continues as they prepare for the final, while Brighton will regroup for their upcoming league fixtures.