Watford’s late push wasn’t enough to overcome Manchester City’s youthful side as they exited the Carabao Cup with a 2-1 defeat at the Etihad Stadium.
Matheus Nunes scored his first goal for City, but it was Watford who pushed the Premier League giants all the way. Despite an early opener from Jeremy Doku and a second goal from Nunes, a late strike from Tom Ince gave the Hornets hope of forcing a dramatic comeback. Ultimately, the Championship side couldn’t find an equaliser, marking their 16th straight defeat against City, but it was a much-improved performance from Watford, who made City work hard for their victory.
Watford came into the match as underdogs, but Tom Cleverley’s side showed resilience against a City team that included five academy players, including 16-year-old debutant Kaden Braithwaite. City’s early dominance was clear, with Doku putting them ahead in just the fifth minute after capitalising on a misplaced back pass by Ryan Porteous. Watford goalkeeper Jonathan Bond, who was kept busy all evening, had no chance as Doku drilled the ball into the bottom corner.
The Hornets did manage to carve out a few opportunities, but City’s high press and quick passing game stifled Watford’s ability to build momentum in the first half. Braithwaite, in his first senior start, stood out for City, with his composure impressing those in attendance. Despite his youth, the Watford attackers, including Kwadwo Baah, struggled to get the better of him. Baah thought he had equalised after barging Braithwaite off the ball and scoring past Stefan Ortega Moreno, but the referee correctly ruled it out for a foul.
City’s second goal came in the 38th minute after sustained pressure. Nunes, who had already tested Bond earlier, found the net with a low shot from the edge of the box, squeezing it past the Watford keeper’s outstretched hand. City continued to dominate possession, but Watford held firm, preventing further damage before the break.
After the interval, Watford began to find their rhythm, especially as City introduced more youth players like Savinho and O’Reilly. Cleverley’s team grew into the game, showing more attacking intent. Bond continued his impressive display in goal, making a string of saves, including a brilliant double stop from Nunes and Phil Foden. The post also came to Watford’s rescue when Savinho’s curling effort bounced off the woodwork.
As the game progressed, Watford’s belief grew. In the 85th minute, Tom Ince produced a moment of brilliance, curling a strike past Ortega Moreno to bring the Hornets back into the game. Ince’s goal reinvigorated Watford, who threw men forward in search of an equaliser. For the first time in the match, City’s young backline looked under pressure as the visitors surged forward. However, despite some late chances, including another fine save from Bond to deny Jack Grealish, City held firm to secure their place in the next round.
Kaden Braithwaite, who became the youngest player to start under Pep Guardiola at 16, earned plaudits for his mature performance. The teenager, who had only trained with the senior team days before the match, handled the occasion well and was substituted to a warm ovation in the 75th minute after a non-stop performance.
Despite Watford’s defeat, the team can take pride in pushing City to the limit. Ince’s goal may have been a consolation on paper, but it injected life into the closing stages, with City having to dig deep to preserve their lead. Watford’s determination to fight until the final whistle, particularly after City’s dominant first half, is a testament to the team’s growing resilience under Cleverley.
Writer’s View
Watford’s performance against Manchester City, despite the defeat, highlighted their ability to go toe-to-toe with one of the best teams in the country. While City’s early dominance put Watford on the back foot, the Hornets showed their character by staying in the game and causing City problems late on. Jonathan Bond’s outstanding saves kept the scoreline respectable, and Tom Ince’s late strike was a fitting reward for Watford’s second-half fightback.
Tom Cleverley will take plenty of positives from this match, especially the way his side responded after going two goals down. The resilience shown by Watford, particularly in the closing stages, bodes well for their Championship campaign. While they couldn’t force extra time, their spirit and determination should serve them well in future matches, especially as they look to build on their recent performances.
Be the first to comment