FA Cup: Erling Haaland's hat-trick helps Manchester City crush Liverpool
What's the story
In a stunning display of football prowess, Manchester City crushed Liverpool 4-0 in the FA Cup quarter-finals at the Etihad Stadium. The star of the match was none other than Erling Haaland, who scored a brilliant hat-trick. This victory has propelled Pep Guardiola's side into their eighth consecutive FA Cup semi-final. City are also aiming to reach a 4th successive FA Cup final. Here's more.
Goal details
Haaland's 1st-half brace puts City ahead
The match kicked off with Virgil van Dijk fouling Nico O'Reilly in the box, giving Haaland a chance to score from the spot. The Norwegian striker made no mistake, sending Giorgi Mamardashvili the wrong way and celebrating by kicking the corner flag. Just before half-time, he doubled City's lead with a stunning goal that left Liverpool reeling.
Match progression
Cherki, Doku add to the scoreline
After the break, Rayan Cherki's skillful play set up Antoine Semenyo, who chipped Mamardashvili to make it 3-0. Not long after, Haaland completed his hat-trick with a goal from Doku releasing O'Reilly. The match was a display of City's attacking prowess and Liverpool's defensive frailties. Mohamed Salah had a chance to redeem himself but his penalty was saved by James Trafford late in the game.
Tactical analysis
Guardiola's tactical brilliance shines through
Despite serving a touchline ban, Pep Guardiola's tactical decisions paid off as City dominated the match. He made just one change from the Carabao Cup final-winning team, bringing Marc Guehi in place of Nathan Ake. On the other hand, Liverpool's performance was disappointing with Salah missing a penalty and their defense failing to contain City's attacks.
Future prospects
City's pursuit of domestic cup double continues
With this victory, City are now eyeing a domestic cup double after their Carabao Cup final triumph over Arsenal. For Liverpool, this defeat is a major blow in their pursuit of silverware this season. They still have a Champions League quarter-final against Paris Saint-Germain and qualification for next year's competition to secure, but their current form raises doubts about their chances.
Information
Here are the match stats
Both teams managed 11 attempts each. City had 7 shots on target with visiting Liverpool managing 5. Liverpool had 36 touches in the opposition box compared to City's 21. The Reds had 50.50% ball possession.
Haaland
Haaland gets to 157 goals for City with hat-trick
Haaland has raced to 157 goals in all competitions for City. This was his 190th appearance for the club. In the ongoing season, he has raced to 33 goals from 44 matches in all competitions. Meanwhile, Haaland now owns 12 career FA Cup goals from 12 appearances across 4 seasons.
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City fly high under Guardiola's guidance
City have now reached 14 domestic cup semi-finals since Guardiola took charge in the summer of 2016. This is more than any other side. He has won 7 major domestic cups. Notably, City won the 2025-26 Carabao Cup and add the FA Cup to the cabinet.