Sports
Manchester City’s Treble Dream Lives On After FA Cup Victory
Manchester City’s bid for an unprecedented treble is still very much on as they cruised past Sheffield United with a 3-0 win in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley on Saturday.
The win sets up a final against Chelsea, and with the Premier League and Champions League still in sight, the possibility of winning all three trophies in one season is becoming more and more of a reality.
Riyad Mahrez was the star of the show, scoring all three of City’s goals in a dominant display against the Blades. It was a welcome victory for City, who have struggled in the FA Cup in recent years, losing in the semi-finals for the last three seasons in a row.
But now, with the final in sight, Pep Guardiola’s side are potentially just 12 games away from achieving an incredible feat that has only been accomplished once before in English football history, by Manchester United in 1999.
Guardiola, however, has been quick to downplay talk of the treble, saying that it is still “far away” despite their impressive form. But with a 16-match unbeaten run in all competitions, the Catalan coach must surely be considering the possibility of winning all three trophies this season.
The City boss has also praised the mentality of his squad, saying that their fighting spirit is what sets them apart from other teams. “Fighting for the titles, being there every year, means the mentality of the club – not just the players – is there,” he said.
Former Everton midfielder Leon Osman has been impressed with City’s performances this season, saying that “the whole of Europe is wowed by what Manchester City are doing and how they’re playing.”
Meanwhile, ex-Manchester United and England defender Gary Neville believes that the treble is “definitely on” for Guardiola’s side.
City’s next challenge will be a crucial Premier League clash against leaders Arsenal on Wednesday, where they will look to close the gap on the Gunners and keep their title hopes alive.
They also face a tough Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid, but with the treble now a possibility, City will be feeling confident and determined to make history.