London: Alexis Sanchez struck an extra-time winner as Arsenal came from behind to beat Manchester City 2-1 in their FA Cup semi-final at Wembley here yesterday.
Sergio Aguero had put City ahead with a fine breakaway goal just after the hour having had another strike controversially ruled out – but Nacho Monreal equalised.
City unfortunate
City twice hit the woodwork in the latter stages of normal time through Yaya Toure and Fernandinho but Sanchez, recently linked with City, pounced for a 101st-minute winner after a goalmouth scramble. Arsenal’s victory vindicated under-pressure Arsene Wenger’s decision to play with three at the back for the second time in a week — but they were outplayed for large spells early on.
The opening goal came just after the hour as City broke from deep following an Arsenal corner. The ball was headed to Yaya Toure, who released Aguero with a superb pass from just outside his own area. The Argentine raced clear of Monreal and beat Cech with a brilliant flick. It was his 30th goal of the season, his 12th in 12 games and sparked off jubilant scenes in the Manchester City end.
Their joy was short-lived, however, as the impressive Oxlade-Chamberlain whipped a dangerous, dipping cross into the City box and Monreal volleyed in at the far post.
Again questions were also likely to be asked of Bravo, who made no attempt to come for the cross, but City’s response was strong. They hit the woodwork twice in quick succession with Cech tipping a hooked Toure shot onto the post and Fernandinho thumping a header against the bar.
A disappointed Sergio Aguero, who scored the opening goal for Manchester City. Pic/AFP
Arsenal’s moment of joy
Arsenal scored the winner as City failed to clear the ball in the box and Sanchez pounced to score from a close range.
Arsenal play Chelsea in the final on May 27.