Manchester City are through to the FA Cup final after a hard-fought 2-1 semi-final victory over Championship side Southampton at Wembley on April 25, 2026, with Nico González’s late strike proving the decisive moment in a tightly contested tie.
Pep Guardiola made eight changes from the side that defeated Burnley 1-0 in midweek — a result that had lifted City above Arsenal in the Premier League table — effectively fielding a rotated lineup for the Wembley showdown. Southampton, currently among the Championship’s top sides, also made six changes from their most recent outing, a draw against Bristol City.
City dominated possession in the opening exchanges but struggled to break down a resolute Southampton defensive structure. The Saints came closest to scoring in the first half, finding the net only to be denied by an offside flag.
The second half saw the contest open up significantly. Despite City’s continued pressure, it was Southampton who drew first blood, with Finn Azaz collecting the ball roughly 20 yards from goal before curling a composed finish into the top corner to give the Championship side a shock lead.
City responded swiftly, with Jeremy Doku restoring parity before González’s late goal completed the turnaround and confirmed City’s place in the final. The winning margin was narrow, but sufficient to send Guardiola’s squad through.
The victory represents a significant opportunity for Manchester City to secure a second domestic trophy in the same season. They now await the outcome of the other FA Cup semi-final between Chelsea and Leeds United, with the final set to be held at Wembley.
The result extends a positive run of form for City, who had already repositioned themselves at the top of the Premier League standings following the midweek win over Burnley. A potential FA Cup triumph would add further weight to their domestic campaign as the season enters its final weeks.
