Humble Antoine Semenyo Steals the Display in FA Cup Mauling

Introduction

Antoine Semenyo’s arrival at Manchester City was already a major headline, but his debut performance in the FA Cup third round was nothing short of spectacular. Just four days after his £65 million transfer from Bournemouth, the 26-year-old Ghanaian winger stole the spotlight in a record-equalling 10-1 win over Exeter City. This overwhelming victory not only marked City’s greatest FA Cup triumph since 1890 but also saw Semenyo become a fan favorite from the very first minute on the pitch.

Key Points

The game featured Manchester City’s biggest FA Cup victory since Tottenham’s 13-2 win in 1960.
The result also broke the record for the largest FA Cup win from a top-flight team since 1987.
Antoine Semenyo scored his first City goal on debut, making him the first player since Sergio Aguero to score straight away at the Etihad Stadium.
Semenyo displayed determination and speed, contributing to City’s 10 goals with a composed finish against Exeter’s defense.
He was named man of the match in a game City dominated from start to finish.
Liverpool batter Erling Haaland played only the first half, with Semenyo stepping up in his absence.
City’s display was described as ruthless, professional, and a testament to their attacking strength under Pep Guardiola.
City’s assistant manager Pep Lijnders praised Semenyo’s attitude and adaptability, calling him “a humble man” who “fits in perfectly.”
Lijnders highlighted City’s team spirit and the seamless integration of new players into the squad.
Exeter’s manager Gary Caldwell described the game as “humbling,” admitting that City’s level of play was beyond his expectations.

Background

The Transfer

Antoine Semenyo completed his transfer from Bournemouth to Manchester City for £65 million in January 2026. The deal was highly anticipated by fans and analysts, given Semenyo’s reputation as a dynamic forward and his consistent scoring record at the Premier League club.

Antoine Semenyo’s Career

Semenyo played three seasons for Bournemouth, scoring 10 league goals for the Cherries. He was known for his technical skills, pace, and humility, which earned him adoration from Bournemouth supporters. City’s acquisition was seen as a bold move to strengthen their attacking options, especially with Erling Haaland playing a limited role in this FA Cup tie.

Manchester City’s FA Cup Record

Manchester City have a rich history in the FA Cup, with multiple victories and record-breaking performances. The 10-1 win over Exeter marked a new milestone, surpassing their previous biggest victories against Huddersfield and Liverpool Stanley.

Analysis

Why Semenyo Stealed the Show

Antoine Semenyo’s debut was a masterclass in humility, determination, and talent. He quickly won over supporters with his work rate, technical ability, and composed finish on goal. City’s fans, eager to welcome a new star, were delighted to see Semenyo replicating the qualities that made him a fan favorite at Bournemouth.

Team Dynamics and Pep Guardiola’s Vision

Pep Guardiola’s decision to sign Semenyo for £65 million paid off handsomely in this FA Cup match. The manager’s system thrives on fluid, high-energy play, and Semenyo’s willingness to chase, run at defenders, and offer width to the attack fit seamlessly into City’s style. Assistant manager Pep Lijnders underlined the importance of having players like Semenyo who can “adapt” and “bring something special” to the team.

Impact on Exeter and Manchester City

For Exeter, the defeat was a humbling reminder of the gap between their league status and Manchester City’s top-flight pedigree. Gary Caldwell’s comments reflected the stark contrast in both quality and experience.

Practical Advice

Understanding the FA Cup’s Significance

The FA Cup is one of football’s most prestigious knockout competitions, offering underdog teams a chance to compete against the giants of English football. For Manchester City, a victory like this not only boosts morale but also serves as motivation for the upcoming Carabao Cup semi-final and league matches.

Building a Winning Team Culture

Semenyo’s debut highlights the importance of team spirit and adaptability when integrating new players. City’s success lies not only in individual talent but also in their ability to foster a cohesive unit with shared goals and values.

Learning from High-Profile Matches

For fans, players, and coaches, matches like this showcase the power of preparation, confidence, and adaptability. Analyzing such games can help aspiring footballers and teams understand the qualities needed to excel at the highest level.

FAQ

Who scored Manchester City’s first goal in the FA Cup vs Exeter?

Antoine Semenyo scored City’s first goal on his debut, finishing off a well-executed pass from Rico Lewis.

How many goals did Manchester City score in total?

Manchester City scored 10 goals in the match against Exeter City, a record-equalling FA Cup win for the club.

Who was named man of the match?

Antoine Semenyo was named man of the match for his outstanding performance in the 10-1 win.

Who played for Manchester City in the match?

Key players included Antoine Semenyo (debutant), Rico Lewis (5 goals), and Erling Haaland (played 45 minutes before scoring).

How did Exeter City respond to City’s dominance?

Exeter City scored one goal through George Birch, but ultimately could not overcome Manchester City’s overwhelming superiority.

Conclusion

Antoine Semenyo’s debut at Manchester City was a triumphant start to his new chapter, showcasing both his individual talent and his ability to integrate into the team ethos. The record-equalling 10-1 FA Cup win over Exeter City not only set a new standard for City’s FA Cup history but also served as an inspiration for fans and players alike. As Manchester City look ahead to the semi-final and the rest of the season, Semenyo’s performance stands as a testament to the club’s commitment to building a winning team with humility, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.