Manchester City came from behind to defeat Southampton and book a place in a record fourth consecutive FA Cup final, keeping alive their hopes of securing a domestic treble.
Pep Guardiola’s side have already lifted the Carabao Cup this season and will return to London on Saturday, May 16, where they will be strong favourites against either Chelsea or Leeds United.
Guardiola made eight changes to the team that edged past Burnley in midweek, but the heavily rotated City side struggled to find rhythm and create clear chances during a scrappy first half.
Omar Marmoush came close with a near-post effort that was denied by Southampton goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, while Saints thought they had taken the lead through Leo Scienza, only for his composed finish to be ruled out for offside.
Southampton registered their first shot on target in the 55th minute, with Ross Stewart’s effort comfortably gathered by James Trafford. At the other end, substitute Savinho saw his curling strike pushed away by Peretz.
The semi-final burst into life in the closing stages as Finn Azaz fired Southampton ahead with a stunning 20-yard strike into the top corner, sparking celebrations among their fans.
However, City responded almost immediately, with Jeremy Doku’s deflected effort finding the far corner just two minutes later to restore parity.
With extra time looming, Nico Gonzalez sealed the comeback, powering home a decisive strike beyond Peretz to send City into the final and closer to a third FA Cup title under Guardiola.
