Guardiola Offers Coffee Talks After Khusanov Flashpoint in City Win
Pep Guardiola extended an invitation to Brentford coach Keith Andrews after Manchester City’s 2-0 Carabao Cup quarterfinal win, offering to discuss the refereeing flashpoint that dominated the post-match conversation at the Etihad Stadium.
The key moment arrived early when Abdukodir Khusanov brought down Kevin Schade as the Brentford forward appeared to be clear on goal. Referee Sam Barrott opted for a yellow card, a decision that stood as City went on to secure their place in the semifinals.
Andrews later described the incident as a defining moment in the contest, arguing that Khusanov should have been dismissed. The former midfielder felt the explanation that the foul occurred too far from the goal did not reflect the danger of the situation.
The discussion gained further relevance given Brentford’s unusual schedule. After facing City, the London club remained in Manchester ahead of their Premier League trip to Wolves, using City’s CFA training base to prepare for Saturday’s match at Molineux.
Speaking after the game, Guardiola responded calmly when informed of Andrews’ comments. The City manager suggested a face-to-face conversation, inviting his opposite number to the training ground café to talk through the incident in person.
On the pitch, City controlled the tie in front of a lively home crowd, setting the tempo early and pushing Brentford deep with sustained possession. Guardiola’s side circulated the ball sharply, with Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva heavily involved in the buildup play.
Brentford threatened on the break, and Schade’s burst behind the defense led directly to the controversial challenge. It proved to be their clearest opportunity before City tightened control and limited further danger.
The opening goal arrived in spectacular fashion through Rayan Cherki. The Frenchman drifted inside from a distance and unleashed a stunning strike that flew into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance and lifting the stadium.
City doubled their advantage after the interval when Savinho finished a composed move to effectively seal the contest. The second goal allowed Guardiola to manage the game, rotating his squad and reducing the intensity as the minutes ticked away.
Despite Cherki’s moment of brilliance, Guardiola was measured in his assessment. The City boss acknowledged the quality of the goal but pointed to defensive lapses that led to the winger’s substitution midway through the second half.
The result sends Manchester City into the Carabao Cup semifinals and keeps their domestic momentum intact, while Brentford depart with frustration over a decision that could have reshaped the tie and now turn their focus fully to league matters at Wolves.