Tottenham Hotspur are through to the EFL Cup quarter-finals after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Manchester City at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Let’s take a look at our match report from that Tottenham Carabao Cup win.
Spurs raced to an early lead through Timo Werner and Pape Matar Sarr, before City managed to pull one back via Nunes just before halftime. Despite City’s dominant possession and attempts, Ange Postecoglou’s side held on to secure a memorable victory.
Carabao Cup Match Report: Tottenham 2-1 Man City
Tottenham started with intensity, establishing a two-goal advantage within the opening 30 minutes. Timo Werner opened his account for the season just five minutes into the match, seizing on a well-placed cross from Dejan Kulusevski to beat City keeper Ortega. This marked Werner’s first goal in all competitions since May 2024, showcasing a revived touch in front of goal that aided to his much-needed confidence.
Spurs doubled their lead in the 25th minute with a spectacular long-range effort from Pape Matar Sarr. Kulusevski, once again involved, played a short corner with Werner before setting up Sarr, who struck precisely from 30 yards to beat Ortega at the near post. By the half-hour mark, Kulusevski had already recorded two assists and four chances created, showing his influence on the game.
Despite City’s efforts, they only managed one shot on target out of seven attempts in the first half, entering the break 2-1 down.
Holding Firm in the Second Half
The second half saw Manchester City continue to press, but Tottenham’s defensive organisation and discipline kept them at bay. Kulusevski was a standout performer, creating opportunities for his teammates and contributing defensively. City enjoyed the lion’s share of possession, controlling over two-thirds of the ball, but their finishing let them down as they failed to convert chances.
Werner came close to extending Tottenham’s lead after a swift break, only to see his shot graze the woodwork.
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Bissouma played a crucial role late in the game, clearing a dangerous chance off the line to deny City’s O’Reilly. Despite City’s 1.42 xG compared to Spurs’ 0.88, it was the home side who managed to hold on for the win.
Quarter-Final Spot Secured
Ange Postecoglou’s side showed resilience and determination, keeping their quest for EFL Cup success alive and sealing City’s first loss since the FA Cup final against Manchester United in all competitions. Kulusevski’s creative play was crucial to the victory, silencing critics after a challenging game against Crystal Palace.
Tottenham now prepare to face Manchester United in the next round—a team that marked their last EFL Cup victory in 2008. More details on this exciting tie will follow.