Riyad Mahrez scores hat-trick, Man City defeats Sheffield United to reach FA Cup final

Wembley Stadium on the night of April 22 still had many empty seats as most of the spectators were fans of the team currently ranked second in the Championship (First Division) Sheffield United. It seemed that everyone thought that victory was already reserved for Man City even before the ball rolled due to the huge difference in class between the two sides, not to mention the series of great achievements established by Pep Guardiola's army that really "threatens" all opponents.

Wembley Stadium "picky" audience in the semi-final match Man City - Sheffield United

Five key players were left on the bench – De Bruyne, Ederson, John Stones, Ruben Dias, Rodri – but Man City's starting lineup was still very strong, including attacking star Erling Haaland. Coach Pep Guardiola's intention was quite clear: The presence of key "cards" such as Erling Haaland, Jack Grealish, Ilkay Gundogan, Bernardo Silva... was to avoid any unnecessary risks and once victory was assured, these star players could be rested early.

Sheffield United are particularly wary of Erling Haaland's explosion.

Sheffield United had the first chance in the second minute, but Man City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega reacted very quickly, receiving a shot from David Jebbison in the penalty area. This warning made the blue team's heart stop and they immediately tightened their formation, strengthened their defense and increased their attack. Facing a Sheffield United playing a tight defense in the middle, Man City proactively attacked from both sides and created a turning point.

Bernardo Silva was fouled in the penalty area...

In the 41st minute, Bernardo Silva covered the ball very well, dribbled the ball and tried to make another turn right in the Sheffield United penalty area, but was blocked by Iliman Ndiaye. The referee immediately pointed to the penalty spot and Riyad Mahrez easily defeated goalkeeper Wesley Foderingham from 11m away.

Riyad Mahrez beat goalkeeper Wesley Foderingham on the 11m mark.

After the break, Man City took complete control of the match and continuously caused trouble in front of Sheffield United's goal. In the 61st minute, Riyad Mahrez received the ball from midfield and accelerated, rushing straight into Sheffield United's penalty area, leaving the opponent's defense helpless, and then decisively shot past goalkeeper Foderingham. 2-0 for Man City.

Riyad Mahrez scores hat-trick, takes Man City to FA Cup final

Five minutes later, Jack Grealish unexpectedly crossed from the left wing into the middle. Mahrez still chose the right position to turn and shoot accurately, completing his own hat-trick. Coach Pep Guardiola then withdrew key players one by one, but Man City still had a few dangerous opportunities that could have turned into goals.

Coach Paul Heckingbottom is not disappointed after losing to colleague Pep Guardiola

After beating Sheffield United 3-0 in an extremely leisurely match, Man City have qualified for the FA Cup final. Their opponent will be the winner of the match between Man United and Brighton on the evening of April 23, also at the "holy land" Wembley.

Mahrez and the ball for the hat-trick author

Source: https://nld.com.vn/the-thao/riyad-mahrez-lap-hat-trick-man-city-ha-sheffield-united-vao-chung-ket-fa-cup-202304230629046.htm