Manchester City delivered a devastating performance to equal a long-standing club record, thrashing Exeter City 10-1 in the FA Cup at the Etihad Stadium. The victory, overseen by assistant Pep Lijnders with manager Pep Guardiola suspended, matched City's biggest-ever win, last achieved against Huddersfield Town in 1987.
Semenyo Makes Instant Impact on Debut
The match was particularly memorable for Antoine Semenyo, who marked his first appearance for the club with a goal and an assist. The £62.5 million signing, who had scored Bournemouth's winner against Tottenham just days earlier, opened his City account in the 52nd minute. A clever pirouette and pass from Rayan Cherki sent Semenyo through, and he finished coolly past Exeter goalkeeper Joe Whitworth.
Semenyo's classy contribution began earlier, however, with a raking pass that led to Tijjani Reijnders' goal. He was also involved in City's second, as his shot rebounded to Rodri, who fired a powerful strike into the net. The debutant received a standing ovation when substituted later in the match.
Exeter Overwhelmed by City's Firepower
Despite a bright start from the League One side, who forced saves from James Trafford, City's quality soon told. The opener came from Max Alleyne, who pounced on a defensive error to score in only his second appearance for the club. Exeter's afternoon quickly turned into a nightmare, compounded by two own goals from defender Jack Fitzwater before half-time, making the score 4-0.
With the result beyond doubt, Guardiola's side continued to press in the second half. Further goals followed from Rico Lewis, Reijnders, Nico O'Reilly, and 17-year-old debutant right-back Ryan McAidoo, who capped a promising display with a fine 18-yard finish.
A Consolation and a Record-Equalling Finale
Exeter's travelling fans were given a moment to cheer when 19-year-old substitute George Birch smashed home a memorable first goal for the club to make it 9-1. However, City had the final word, with Rico Lewis netting his second of the game to complete the historic 10-1 scoreline.
The comprehensive victory, achieved with a rotated side featuring Erling Haaland and Nathan Aké, will send a formidable message to City's rivals in the competition. For Exeter, the focus returns to League One, having been swatted aside by a ruthless display of attacking football from the Premier League giants.
