Manchester City made light work of Exeter City in the FA Cup third round, thumping them 10-1 in a goal-laden spectacle. The Premier League leaders flexed their muscles early and never looked back, turning the tie into a personal highlight reel.
Superstar striker Erling Haaland was unplayable, netting four times including a rapid first-half hat-trick. Oscar Bobb opened his account with a tidy finish, while Phil Foden’s curled effort made it 5-0 at the break. Exeter’s defense was torn apart relentlessly.
The onslaught intensified after halftime. Doku’s mazy run and shot, Silva’s sublime touch, McAtee’s tap-in, Haaland’s cheeky chip, Phillips’ drive, and Hamilton’s late strike sealed a perfect ten. Exeter nicked a goal back, offering brief hope, but the script was already written.
With rotations across the board, Guardiola’s bench strength shone through, easing concerns over fixture congestion. This performance underscores City’s trophy pedigree as they eye a domestic double.
Exeter depart with heads held high, having tested the champions. For City, it’s onto the next challenge in the road to Wembley. If this is a taste of things to come, the FA Cup could witness history.