Phil Foden netted twice as Manchester City dominated Huddersfield Town in the FA Cup third round at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
Despite the Terriers holding firm for the first half-hour, Foden broke the deadlock with a well-taken finish from a tight angle. Shortly after, Julian Alvarez smartly doubled City’s lead.
An own goal from Ben Jackson extended the lead to 3-0, with Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku returning from injury. Foden added a fourth with a precise strike from the edge of the box, and Doku sealed the comprehensive victory by slamming home De Bruyne’s cross.
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In the early stages, Pep Guardiola made five changes from the side that defeated Sheffield United in December, while Huddersfield handed a debut to loanee Alex Matos. The visitors defended resiliently and attempted counter-attacks, but City controlled the game, limiting Huddersfield’s offensive opportunities.
Guardiola had to adjust tactically when Manuel Akanji suffered an injury, introducing Matheus Nunes as Rico Lewis shifted to right-back. Jack Grealish orchestrated play down the left, setting up the opening goal when Mateo Kovacic’s precise pass found Alvarez, whose ball deflected off Foden into the net.
The resilience of Huddersfield waned as City secured a second goal through Alvarez, courtesy of a scuffed effort from Lewis. With a 2-0 lead at halftime, City continued to dominate.
Just before the hour mark, a long pass found Matheus Nunes, whose control set up Oscar Bobb. His shot deflected off Jackson for City’s third goal. Guardiola then introduced De Bruyne and Doku, both returning from injury.
Foden showcased his brilliance with a well-executed finish, receiving Kovacic’s flick to slot the ball into the bottom corner. The scoring concluded when Bobb set up De Bruyne, whose cross found Doku for a powerful half-volley.
City’s 5-0 win demonstrated their authority in a comprehensive performance, securing a place in the next round of the FA Cup.