For a brief, electrifying moment, Plymouth Argyle fans dared to dream. The 7,800 traveling supporters, who embarked on a grueling 560-mile round trip, erupted in celebration as their underdog heroes took a stunning lead at the Etihad.
Maksym Talovierov, a recent January signing from LASK, etched his name into FA Cup folklore. Rising highest to meet Matthew Sorinola’s pinpoint corner, the 24-year-old Ukrainian defender sent his header crashing into the net. He looked skyward in triumph as Plymouth’s faithful roared in sheer ecstasy.
Could they do it again? After knocking out Premier League leaders Liverpool in the previous round, was another FA Cup giantkilling on the cards?
Enter Kevin De Bruyne and Nico O’Reilly.
Manchester City’s captain, a maestro in the competition, refused to let history repeat itself. In first-half stoppage time, De Bruyne delivered a moment of brilliance.
His curling free kick found the head of 18-year-old O’Reilly, who guided the ball past Plymouth goalkeeper Conor Hazard, restoring parity before the break.
The Championship side held firm for long spells, frustrating City’s attacking stars. But in the 76th minute, their resistance was finally broken. After Hazard’s heroic double save denied both Erling Haaland and Bernardo Silva, O’Reilly was in the right place at the right time.
The young midfielder nodded in De Bruyne’s corner to complete his brace and turn the tie in City’s favor.
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Plymouth’s hopes of a miraculous comeback were dashed in the final moments. Haaland, selflessly turning provider, squared the ball across the box, and De Bruyne tapped home from close range.
It was a crushing blow for the spirited visitors, but their performance earned them admiration far beyond Home Park.
Guardiola’s FA Cup Hunt Continues
The victory reaffirmed Manchester City’s dominance in the competition, keeping Pep Guardiola’s pursuit of a third FA Cup title alive. But for Plymouth, the journey home—though long—was filled with pride. Their fearless display and unwavering support reminded football fans why the magic of the FA Cup endures.
What did you think of City’s performance? Can O’Reilly become Guardiola’s next breakout star? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!