Mahrez takes Man City to FA Cup final
After eliminating Bayern from the Champions League, Man City continues to demonstrate the image of a team that is in shape. They completely overwhelmed their opponents playing in the First Division with 78% possession, launching 10 shots including four on target. This number on the Sheffield side is only three, with one shot on target.
The brightest star on Man City's side this match is right winger Riyad Mahrez, who, along with Jack Grealish, supports strikers Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez. The Algeria international untied the game knot at the end of the first half, successfully completing the penalty after the referee blew away Daniel Jebbison's somewhat immature dispute with Bernardo Silva.
Despite taking the lead, Man City had difficulty doubling the lead against Sheffield's stubborn defense. In that context, Mahrez once again spoke up. This time, he broke through from the middle of the field, rushing straight into the center before beating goalkeeper Wes Foderingham.
The Algerian striker completed his hat-trick five minutes later. From Jack Grealish's cross, Mahrez cushioned one touch. Foderingham got his hand on the ball but was unable to block it. At 32 years and six days, Mahrez became the oldest player ever to score a hat-trick for a Pep Guardiola-directed club, as well as the first hat-trick in an FA Cup semi-final at Wembley since Alex Dawson (in 1958).
Although very determined, the big difference in level made Sheffield unable to catch up with the pace of Man City's play. They have to defend most of the time and try to exploit set pieces. This is an expensive lesson for teachers and students Paul Heckingbottom before returning to the Premier League next season, which is likely to happen.
The gentle victory helps Man City preserve their fitness in an important period with a thick schedule. Ahead of them is the match against Arsenal in the Premier League in the middle of next week. Guardiola's teachers and students are still pursuing the treble this season while still fighting in the FA Cup, Premier League and Champions League.
Man City has missed the appointment with the FA Cup final since the 2018-2019 season. This time back, they will meet the winner of the semi-final between Man Utd and Brighton.
