Manchester City, nicknamed "The Blue Moon," defeated Newcastle United 3-1 in the second leg of the 2025/26 EFL Cup semi-final, thanks to two goals from Malmush and a strike from Reindes. In an interview, Guardiola expressed satisfaction with the team's overall performance and delight at seeing some players have the opportunity to participate in the final.

Just seven minutes into the match, Malmush managed to get a shot off amidst a scramble, and the ball deflected into the net, giving Manchester City a dream start of 1-0. In the 29th minute, Semenho's cross was cleared by Trippier, and Malmush headed the ball into the net, extending Manchester City's lead over Newcastle to 2-0.

In the 32nd minute, Reindes regained possession and scored with a low shot, extending Manchester City's lead to 3-0. In the 62nd minute of the second half, Malik Ghaf passed the ball to Elanga, who received it, broke through the defense, and curled a shot that hit the post and bounced into the net, helping Newcastle pull one back to 1-3.

Manchester City ultimately defeated Newcastle United 3-1 and eliminated their opponents with a total score of 5-1, successfully securing their ticket to the final.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said, "I am really very satisfied. Advancing was by no means a given, and I know all too well how difficult the competition is. I can't even remember how many semi-finals we've played, but reaching the final again is fantastic. We've reached the League Cup final five times in the last 10 years, which is a remarkable achievement."

"For many of us, including myself, it makes me very happy to be back in the final, especially since there are quite a few players who have never played in a League Cup final or any final for this club before."

In addition, Manchester City will travel to Wembley Stadium for the League Cup final to challenge Premier League leaders Arsenal.

Guardiola said, "This time, our opponent is perhaps one of the best teams in Europe, or even the world, both in terms of their style of play and their statistics. It will be a great experience, and hopefully everyone will be healthy by March so we can play a fantastic game."

“What I liked most was that we started the game with a 0-0 mentality. Even though we had a 2-0 lead from the first leg, we didn’t think about controlling the game or holding onto our advantage; it was the complete opposite. We had speed, chances, and shots, and we were very aggressive when we had possession. Newcastle’s characteristic is that they keep pressing and attacking no matter what minute the game is going on, so we had to be more focused.”

Guardiola also said, "In the second half, Malmush and Nico Aurelli were a bit tired, so they couldn't maintain the same aggression in those positions."

"But to be honest, I knew how difficult the match was, especially against last season's champions. We beat them in both legs, and we did it both times."

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