Manchester City progressed to the FA Cup fifth round after a hard-fought victory over League Two side Salford City, with Marc Guehi scoring his first goal for the club.
Pep Guardiola made nine changes to his starting line-up and saw his side take an early lead when Alfie Dorrington diverted the ball into his own net inside six minutes.
Despite the fast start, City struggled to assert control and were dealt a setback when defender Max Alleyne was forced off with injury in the 22nd minute.
Salford threaten upset
Salford responded positively after conceding and created several chances before half-time. Ben Woodburn tested goalkeeper James Trafford with a strong effort, while Brandon Cooper headed wide from a corner late in the first half.
The visitors continued to pose problems after the break. Kelly N’Mai drove a shot into Trafford’s chest as City’s rotated side laboured to find rhythm.
Guardiola, without Erling Haaland in the squad, introduced Antoine Semenyo, Marc Guehi and Nico O’Reilly in an attempt to lift the tempo.
Guehi seals progress
The changes proved decisive. Guehi capitalised after Salford goalkeeper Matthew Young could only parry a cross into his path, and the England defender calmly slotted home to double City’s advantage and secure control of the tie.
It marked Guehi’s first goal for City and effectively ended Salford’s hopes of forcing a comeback.
City, seven-time FA Cup winners, survived moments of pressure but ultimately did enough to secure their place in Monday’s fifth-round draw.
