Ghanaian attacker Antoine Semenyo dropped a jaw-breaking performance on his first day for Manchester City as he found the back of the net and registered an assist to help the Sky Blues whitewash Exeter City 10-1 in the FA Cup third-round tie at the Etihad Stadium.
Semenyo was the leading protagonist in City’s devastating attacking show as he made an instant impact in a game that saw Pep Guardiola’s side hit double figures for the first time in four decades. The Ghanaian was adjudged Man of the Match, paying back every penny of the £65 million paid to secure his signature from Bournemouth just a day earlier.
City exploded out of the gates in the 12th minute as Max Alleyne put the hosts ahead. Rodri doubled the lead with a powerful strike in the 24th minute. A comedy of errors from Exeter saw Jake Doyle-Hayes and Jack Fitzwater score own goals, sending City into halftime with a 4-0 lead.
Semenyo exerted his quality early in the second half. He delivered a superb cross to youngster Rico Lewis, who finished calmly to make it 5-0 four minutes after the restart.
The Ghanaian later got his reward when he pounced on a well-weighted through ball from Rayan Cherki and finished coolly in the 54th minute to score his first goal for the Citizens.
After Semenyo’s goal, the floodgates opened. Tijani Reijnders, Nico O’Reilly, and Ryan McAidoo scored in the 71st, 79th, and 81st minutes to extend City’s lead. Exeter grabbed a consolation through George Birch, before Rico Lewis added his second in stoppage time to complete the rout.
Semenyo was subbed off in the 63rd minute to a warm reception after a performance that highlighted his pace, directness, and finishing ability. He started up front alongside Erling Haaland and Ryan McAidoo, making a strong case for himself on debut.
The 10-1 victory sends Manchester City into the fourth round of the FA Cup for a record 15th consecutive season.
The Sky Blues will learn their next opponents on Monday, January 12, when the draw will be held at Anfield ahead of Liverpool’s clash with Barnsley.
Semenyo’s impressive debut marks a proud moment for the Ghanaian, setting the tone for his contributions to both club and country, especially with Ghana’s World Cup campaign in North America later this year.
By: Andrews Addotey
