Lowly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aston-villa-beat-liverpools-kids-to-reach-league-cup-semis-268863">Aston&nbsp;Villa</a>&nbsp;defied incessant pressure as they held out bravely for a 1-1 draw at Leicester City despite being unable to field a striker in their League Cup semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

Freddy Guilbert put&nbsp;Villa&nbsp;ahead with their first shot of the game after 28 minutes and Leicester, second in the Premier League and hoping to reach their first cup final since 2000, needed a 74th-minute equaliser by Kelechi Iheanacho to force a draw.

The second leg is on January&nbsp;28,&nbsp;with the winners of the match meeting either Manchester City or <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-solskjaer-needs-time-to-make-lasting-impact-at-manchester-united-guardiola-272687">Manchester United</a> in the final.

Leicester striker Jamie Vardy returned to the side after missing the previous three matches with a minor calf problem while Jonathan Kodjia's illness left&nbsp;Villa, 17th in the league, without a recognised forward.

"We haven't got a choice. That's where we are," said&nbsp;Aston&nbsp;Villa&nbsp;manager Dean Smith.

Ayoze Perez had a shot deflected wide and&nbsp;Villa&nbsp;goalkeeper Orjan Nyland denied Vardy with his knees as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/irresistible-liverpool-thrash-leicester-270476">Leicester</a> seized the initiative but it was the visitors who went ahead.

A move started by Jack Grealish ended with Anwar El Ghazi crossing to the far post where Guilbert caught Ben Chilwell napping and volleyed home.

Villa&nbsp;nearly had another goal before halftime when Ezro Konsa headed onto the bar.

Leicester pressed forward relentlessly after the break but&nbsp;Villa&nbsp;appeared to be holding out comfortably until Hamza Choudhury stole the ball from Douglas Luiz and set up a break which ended with Vardy playing in Iheanacho and the Nigerian scored with a clinical finish.

Lowly Aston Villa defied incessant pressure as they held out bravely for a 1-1 draw at Leicester City despite being unable to field a striker in their League Cup semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

Lowly Aston Villa defied incessant pressure as they held out bravely for a 1-1 draw at Leicester City despite being unable to field a striker in their League Cup semi-final first leg on Wednesday. Freddy Guilbert put Villa ahead with their first shot of the game after 28 minutes and Leicester, second in the Premier League and hoping to reach their first cup final since 2000, needed a 74th-minute equaliser by Kelechi Iheanacho to force a draw. The second leg is on January 28, with the winners of the match meeting either Manchester City or Manchester United in the final. Leicester striker Jamie Vardy returned to the side after missing the previous three matches with a minor calf problem while Jonathan Kodjia's illness left Villa, 17th in the league, without a recognised forward. "We haven't got a choice. That's where we are," said Aston Villa manager Dean Smith. Ayoze Perez had a shot deflected wide and Villa goalkeeper Orjan Nyland denied Vardy with his knees as Leicester seized the initiative but it was the visitors who went ahead. A move started by Jack Grealish ended with Anwar El Ghazi crossing to the far post where Guilbert caught Ben Chilwell napping and volleyed home. Villa nearly had another goal before halftime when Ezro Konsa headed onto the bar. Leicester pressed forward relentlessly after the break but Villa appeared to be holding out comfortably until Hamza Choudhury stole the ball from Douglas Luiz and set up a break which ended with Vardy playing in Iheanacho and the Nigerian scored with a clinical finish.

EFL Cup: Striker-less Aston Villa hold on for draw at Leicester

Holders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-man-utd-held-by-wolves-man-city-cruise-through-272201">Manchester City</a> took a big step towards another League Cup showpiece with a 3-1 win over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-solskjaer-needs-time-to-make-lasting-impact-at-manchester-united-guardiola-272687">Manchester United</a> in their semi-final, first leg at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

City outclassed their neighbours in the first half, going in 3-0 at the break with goals from Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and an Andreas Pereira own goal before United regrouped and avoided what could have been a more emphatic defeat.

"We could have gone in four or five up at halftime, we had the chances. They pressed us higher in the second half, we got tired but overall we are happy," said Bernardo Silva.

The hosts suffered a blow before kick-off with their 80 million pounds central defender Harry Maguire failing a fitness test and Phil Jones was handed a rare start.

City manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-var-is-a-big-mess-says-guardiola-after-more-controversies-270921">Pep Guardiola</a> opted to play without a recognised striker, giving midfielders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kevin-de-bruyne-prefers-old-school-but-ok-with-var-243907">Kevin De Bruyne</a> and Bernardo Silva licence to push forward centrally.

With Raheem Sterling and Mahrez on the wings, the approach worked superbly against a flimsy-looking defence.

It was a brilliant strike from Bernardo Silva that put City ahead in the 17th minute, the winger cutting in from the right before unleashing a superb shot into the far, top corner.

The busy Portugal international then created City's second in the 33rd, collecting a poor headed clearance from Victor Lindelof and dancing past a challenge before threading the ball to Mahrez who rounded goalkeeper David de Gea and slotted home.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-jesus-double-helps-man-city-inflict-first-defeat-on-ancelotti-271641">City</a> then punished United with a counter-attack which ended with De Bruyne leaving Jones on the ground and blasting goalwards before De Gea's parry ricocheted off United midfielder Pereira into his own net after 38 minutes.

&nbsp;

More solid

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-dominate-manchester-united-in-first-win-for-arteta-271539">United</a> looked more solid after the introduction of midfielder Nemanja Matic at the break and got a foothold in the tie through a 70th-minute goal from Marcus Rashford.

The England striker was picked out by a perfectly-weighted pass from Mason Greenwood and coolly slipped the ball past keeper Claudio Bravo.

The last 15 teams to win away from home in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final have all progressed to the final but Guardiola said the tie was far from over.

"Of course Manchester United can come back. Last year here they lost to PSG and they qualified," he said, referring to United's 2-0 home defeat by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-cruise-into-league-cup-quarters-without-rested-neymar-269109">Paris St-Germain</a> in the Champions League last 16 which they overturned with a 3-1 win in Paris.

"They have the shirt which means history and pride," added the Spaniard, whose City team lost 2-1 to their rivals at the Etihad in December's Premier League clash.

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said his side had not performed well in the crucial period after City's opening goal.

"From their first goal and especially the second, we struggled to get to grips with them. A good reaction second half, but first half until they scored it is was back and forth. We didn't cope with the setback well enough," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-west-ham-sack-pellegrini-after-leicester-defeat-270816">Leicester City</a> face Aston Villa in the first leg of the other semi-final on Wednesday.

Holders Manchester City took a big step towards another League Cup showpiece with a 3-1 win over Manchester United in their semi-final, first leg at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

Holders Manchester City took a big step towards another League Cup showpiece with a 3-1 win over Manchester United in their semi-final, first leg at Old Trafford on Tuesday. City outclassed their neighbours in the first half, going in 3-0 at the break with goals from Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and an Andreas Pereira own goal before United regrouped and avoided what could have been a more emphatic defeat. "We could have gone in four or five up at halftime, we had the chances. They pressed us higher in the second half, we got tired but overall we are happy," said Bernardo Silva. The hosts suffered a blow before kick-off with their 80 million pounds central defender Harry Maguire failing a fitness test and Phil Jones was handed a rare start. City manager Pep Guardiola opted to play without a recognised striker, giving midfielders Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva licence to push forward centrally. With Raheem Sterling and Mahrez on the wings, the approach worked superbly against a flimsy-looking defence. It was a brilliant strike from Bernardo Silva that put City ahead in the 17th minute, the winger cutting in from the right before unleashing a superb shot into the far, top corner. The busy Portugal international then created City's second in the 33rd, collecting a poor headed clearance from Victor Lindelof and dancing past a challenge before threading the ball to Mahrez who rounded goalkeeper David de Gea and slotted home. City then punished United with a counter-attack which ended with De Bruyne leaving Jones on the ground and blasting goalwards before De Gea's parry ricocheted off United midfielder Pereira into his own net after 38 minutes. More solid United looked more solid after the introduction of midfielder Nemanja Matic at the break and got a foothold in the tie through a 70th-minute goal from Marcus Rashford. The England striker was picked out by a perfectly-weighted pass from Mason Greenwood and coolly slipped the ball past keeper Claudio Bravo. The last 15 teams to win away from home in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final have all progressed to the final but Guardiola said the tie was far from over. "Of course Manchester United can come back. Last year here they lost to PSG and they qualified," he said, referring to United's 2-0 home defeat by Paris St-Germain in the Champions League last 16 which they overturned with a 3-1 win in Paris. "They have the shirt which means history and pride," added the Spaniard, whose City team lost 2-1 to their rivals at the Etihad in December's Premier League clash. United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said his side had not performed well in the crucial period after City's opening goal. "From their first goal and especially the second, we struggled to get to grips with them. A good reaction second half, but first half until they scored it is was back and forth. We didn't cope with the setback well enough," he said. Leicester City face Aston Villa in the first leg of the other semi-final on Wednesday.

League Cup: Final in sight for Manchester City after 3-1 win against United

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-dominate-manchester-united-in-first-win-for-arteta-271539">Arsenal</a>'s Reiss Nelson scored early in the second half to secure a 1-0 win over battling Championship leaders Leeds United in the FA Cup third round at The Emirates stadium on Monday.

Nelson put a near full-strength home side ahead in the 55th minute, scrappily side-footing the ball into the net after the Leeds defence was caught out by an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-im-really-disappointed-with-the-result-arteta-270937">Alexandre Lacazette</a> cross.

Arsenal, who have won the world's oldest cup competition a record 13 times -&nbsp;but lost to Leeds in the 1972 final - visit fellow Premier League side Bournemouth in the fourth round.

Leeds had taken the game to Arsenal straight from the whistle, pushing forward and blasting 11 shots on goal to the hosts' one in the first 25 minutes alone.

They dominated possession and striker Patrick Bamford was unlucky not to score after 15 minutes when he collected the ball from Jack Harrison but curled his close-range shot onto the bar.

Arsenal by contrast looked a shadow of the side who beat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-man-utd-held-by-wolves-man-city-cruise-through-272201">Manchester United</a> 2-0 in the Premier League on New Year's Day.

But Mikel Arteta's side looked a different team in the second half, with Lacazette whipping an early free-kick off the bar and David Luiz going close before Nelson struck.

"Leeds are a great team and they pressed us, we didn't expect it. We got the goal in the end and that is the most important thing," said Nelson.

"This will give us confidence to go forward."

Lacazette said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-boss-arteta-gives-playmaker-ozil-benefit-of-the-doubt-270933">Arteta</a> gave the players a firm talking to at halftime, although the manager made it sound less daunting.

"Now I'm really pleased but we saw two different teams from the first to second half. I tried to tell them exactly what they were going to face and after 32 minutes we'd won one duel," he said.

"We changed our attitude, desire and organisation at halftime and then we were completely different. It was good for my players to learn and to suffer on the pitch."

Both sides fielded second-string keepers - with Emiliano Martinez coming in for Arsenal and Illan Meslier for leeds - and the home side were missing striker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-aubameyang-goal-earns-artetas-arsenal-draw-at-bournemouth-270498">Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang</a> due to illness, but otherwise they fielded strong lineups.

Arsenal's Reiss Nelson scored early in the second half to secure a 1-0 win over battling Championship leaders Leeds United in the FA Cup third round at The Emirates stadium on Monday.

Arsenal's Reiss Nelson scored early in the second half to secure a 1-0 win over battling Championship leaders Leeds United in the FA Cup third round at The Emirates stadium on Monday. Nelson put a near full-strength home side ahead in the 55th minute, scrappily side-footing the ball into the net after the Leeds defence was caught out by an Alexandre Lacazette cross. Arsenal, who have won the world's oldest cup competition a record 13 times - but lost to Leeds in the 1972 final - visit fellow Premier League side Bournemouth in the fourth round. Leeds had taken the game to Arsenal straight from the whistle, pushing forward and blasting 11 shots on goal to the hosts' one in the first 25 minutes alone. They dominated possession and striker Patrick Bamford was unlucky not to score after 15 minutes when he collected the ball from Jack Harrison but curled his close-range shot onto the bar. Arsenal by contrast looked a shadow of the side who beat Manchester United 2-0 in the Premier League on New Year's Day. But Mikel Arteta's side looked a different team in the second half, with Lacazette whipping an early free-kick off the bar and David Luiz going close before Nelson struck. "Leeds are a great team and they pressed us, we didn't expect it. We got the goal in the end and that is the most important thing," said Nelson. "This will give us confidence to go forward." Lacazette said Arteta gave the players a firm talking to at halftime, although the manager made it sound less daunting. "Now I'm really pleased but we saw two different teams from the first to second half. I tried to tell them exactly what they were going to face and after 32 minutes we'd won one duel," he said. "We changed our attitude, desire and organisation at halftime and then we were completely different. It was good for my players to learn and to suffer on the pitch." Both sides fielded second-string keepers - with Emiliano Martinez coming in for Arsenal and Illan Meslier for leeds - and the home side were missing striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang due to illness, but otherwise they fielded strong lineups.

FA Cup: Arteta's gunners push through against Leeds

Manchester United must "earn the right" to win at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-citys-title-bid-fades-after-stunning-loss-against-wolves-270681">Wolverhampton</a> Wanderers in the FA Cup on Saturday after crashing out against Wolves in the quarter-finals of the tournament last season, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Friday.

United were knocked out after a 2-1 defeat at Molineux and Solskjaer is looking for his first win at the venue having been beaten 2-1 in the league last season and held 1-1 by Nuno Espirito Santo's side in the current campaign.

"It'll be the fourth time there in my time already and we haven't won there. It's a tough place. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-unbeaten-for-a-year-liverpool-271841">Liverpool</a> lost there last season and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-jesus-double-helps-man-city-inflict-first-defeat-on-ancelotti-271641">Manchester City</a> have just lost there now," Solskjaer told a news conference.

"They have good players, a good manager who's had time, got his way of playing, his philosophy. The players are getting to know each other and swap between 3-5-2 and 3-4-3, and seem to know every little detail... We're up for a hard night.

"We've got to earn the right to win there. We've got to play well, perform and go there positive because we want a reaction after a defeat against Arsenal."

Record signing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-considering-january-reinforcements-with-pogba-mctominay-injured-271629">Paul Pogba</a>, who missed the 2-0 league defeat by Arsenal, is set for ankle surgery and faces up to four weeks out with Solskjaer confirming the problem was not the same issue that had sidelined the midfielder for three months this season.

"Here we go again - FA Cup third round and you are talking about Paul. He came back after a spell out, played two games, had a reaction and couldn't go to Burnley," Solskjaer said.

"We did a scan. It is not the same injury... you always consult your own medical people as well... you want the best second opinion. The advice was to have it done. It's not going to be a major one, probably three or four weeks."

Midfielder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-uniteds-mctominay-set-for-ankle-scan-a-doubt-for-scotland-261323">Scott McTominay</a> is out for a long spell after sustaining knee ligament damage in the win over Newcastle United last month but Solskjaer said that he would not overpay for reinforcements in the January transfer window.

"We're still looking... we have our targets. If they become available, then it's something we want to do. If the right ones aren't there for the right money then we can't."

Manchester United must "earn the right" to win at Wolverhampton Wanderers in the FA Cup on Saturday after crashing out against Wolves in the quarter-finals of the tournament last season, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Friday.

Manchester United must "earn the right" to win at Wolverhampton Wanderers in the FA Cup on Saturday after crashing out against Wolves in the quarter-finals of the tournament last season, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Friday. United were knocked out after a 2-1 defeat at Molineux and Solskjaer is looking for his first win at the venue having been beaten 2-1 in the league last season and held 1-1 by Nuno Espirito Santo's side in the current campaign. "It'll be the fourth time there in my time already and we haven't won there. It's a tough place. Liverpool lost there last season and Manchester City have just lost there now," Solskjaer told a news conference. "They have good players, a good manager who's had time, got his way of playing, his philosophy. The players are getting to know each other and swap between 3-5-2 and 3-4-3, and seem to know every little detail... We're up for a hard night. "We've got to earn the right to win there. We've got to play well, perform and go there positive because we want a reaction after a defeat against Arsenal." Record signing Paul Pogba, who missed the 2-0 league defeat by Arsenal, is set for ankle surgery and faces up to four weeks out with Solskjaer confirming the problem was not the same issue that had sidelined the midfielder for three months this season. "Here we go again - FA Cup third round and you are talking about Paul. He came back after a spell out, played two games, had a reaction and couldn't go to Burnley," Solskjaer said. "We did a scan. It is not the same injury... you always consult your own medical people as well... you want the best second opinion. The advice was to have it done. It's not going to be a major one, probably three or four weeks." Midfielder Scott McTominay is out for a long spell after sustaining knee ligament damage in the win over Newcastle United last month but Solskjaer said that he would not overpay for reinforcements in the January transfer window. "We're still looking... we have our targets. If they become available, then it's something we want to do. If the right ones aren't there for the right money then we can't."

Hard night ahead for Manchester United: Solskjaer

Wayne&nbsp;Rooney&nbsp;marked his return to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-unbeaten-for-a-year-liverpool-271841">English football</a> with an assist on his Derby County debut as he captained the club to a 2-1 win over Barnsley in the Championship on Thursday.

The 34-year-old, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-considering-january-reinforcements-with-pogba-mctominay-injured-271629">Manchester United</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-england-chief-southgate-dissapointed-to-not-be-linked-to-club-positions-270326">England</a>'s most prolific striker, signed an initial 18-month deal at the second-tier side where he will also work as a coach as he chases his dream of being a manager.

Rooney, who last played for US&nbsp;Major League Soccer side DC United, floated a free-kick into the box at the stroke of halftime which allowed striker Jack Marriott to give Derby the lead with only his second goal this season.

"It was a big night for myself, big night for the club, a lot of excitement, but the main priority tonight was to get three points,"&nbsp;Rooney&nbsp;told sources. "It feels good to finally make my debut and help the team win.

"It was a difficult game, I thought Barnsley played well, made it tough for us, but we worked hard, created chances... It was a good ball and a great finish from Jack. I'm pleased for Jack because he needed that goal."

Derby are 17th in the standings with 33 points from 26 games while Barnsley are in the relegation zone with 21 points, ahead of bottom side Luton Town on goal difference.

Wayne Rooney marked his return to English football with an assist on his Derby County debut as he captained the club to a 2-1 win over Barnsley in the Championship on Thursday.

Wayne Rooney marked his return to English football with an assist on his Derby County debut as he captained the club to a 2-1 win over Barnsley in the Championship on Thursday. The 34-year-old, Manchester United and England's most prolific striker, signed an initial 18-month deal at the second-tier side where he will also work as a coach as he chases his dream of being a manager. Rooney, who last played for US Major League Soccer side DC United, floated a free-kick into the box at the stroke of halftime which allowed striker Jack Marriott to give Derby the lead with only his second goal this season. "It was a big night for myself, big night for the club, a lot of excitement, but the main priority tonight was to get three points," Rooney told sources. "It feels good to finally make my debut and help the team win. "It was a difficult game, I thought Barnsley played well, made it tough for us, but we worked hard, created chances... It was a good ball and a great finish from Jack. I'm pleased for Jack because he needed that goal." Derby are 17th in the standings with 33 points from 26 games while Barnsley are in the relegation zone with 21 points, ahead of bottom side Luton Town on goal difference.

Football: New captain Rooney leads Derby County in win over Barnsley

Raheem Sterling's second-half double ensured <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-not-on-par-with-european-elite-says-guardiola-267118">City</a> warded off a shock to win 3-1 at League One Oxford, while United ended fourth-tier Colchester United's fairytale run with a 3-0 win at Old Trafford.

Leicester set up a semi-final meeting with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aston-villa-beat-liverpools-kids-to-reach-league-cup-semis-268863">Aston Villa</a> after the Foxes survived a second-half fightback from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-everton-sack-manager-silva-after-merseyside-derby-humbling-266568">Everton</a> to secure their place in the last four 4-2 on penalties after a 2-2 draw at Goodison Park.

City have won this competition for the past two seasons with Pep Guardiola's only defeat in the League Cup coming to United three years ago.

Guardiola's men will have a chance to avenge their 2-1 Premier League defeat to the Red Devils earlier this month when the sides clash over two legs in January.

"You always want to win trophies. We've got a nice little draw coming up, it'll be exciting times," said United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. "We've shown before we can do well against City."

City made eight changes for the trip to Oxford, but still named a strong side and went ahead through Joao Cancelo's first goal for the English champions midway through the first half.

However, Oxford went toe-to-toe with their illustrious visitors all night and levelled through Matty Taylor a minute into the second half.

Oxford even had more attempts on target than City but did not have the predatory instincts of Sterling on their side as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-sterling-dropped-by-england-after-training-ground-disturbance-261542">England</a> international twice tapped home from close range to spare City's blushes.

"It was a tight game with the wind making things difficult but we did well," said Guardiola, who was accompanied by assistant Mikel Arteta despite speculation suggesting he is set to be announced as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-slump-to-first-home-defeat-by-brighton-266535">Arsenal</a>'s new manager.

"We suffered a lot in the second half. At 2-1 they play long balls with throw-ins, corners and we struggled but it's okay."

&nbsp;

United patience pays off&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-manchester-united-thrash-az-basaksehir-dump-moenchengladbach-out-of-europa-league-268032">Manchester United</a> had to be patient before seeing off Colchester, who had beaten Tottenham and Crystal Palace to make the last eight.

Marcus Rashford was guilty of missing a host of chances in a goalless first half.

However,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-rashford-double-as-united-spoil-mourinhos-return-266316">England forward</a> made amends six minutes into the second period with a calm finish to register a career-best 14th goal of the season.

Rashford was also the creator of United's other two goals as Ryan Jackson turned a cross into his own net before Anthony Martial stretched to convert at the back post.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-leicester-break-club-record-with-4-1-win-at-villa-267125">Leicester</a>'s brilliant season continued as they held their nerve from the spot after blowing a comfortable lead at Everton.

The Foxes travel to City in the Premier League on Saturday, but Brendan Rodgers still named a near full-strength side and was rewarded when James Maddison and Jonny Evans struck in five first half minutes to give the visitors a 2-0 half-time lead.

But <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/everton-investigate-homophobic-chants-at-chelsea-fans-267115">Everton</a> are made of sterner stuff under caretaker manager Duncan Ferguson.

Ben Davies gave the Toffees hope 20 minutes from time and a sensational long-range strike from Leighton Baines sent the game to penalties.

Maddison then saw his spot-kick saved to start the shootout, but Kasper&nbsp;Schmeichel was Leicester's hero with saves from Cenk Tosun and Baines before Jamie Vardy scored the decisive penalty.

Raheem Sterling's second-half double ensured City warded off a shock to win 3-1 at League One Oxford, while United ended fourth-tier Colchester United's fairytale run with a 3-0 win at Old Trafford.

Raheem Sterling's second-half double ensured City warded off a shock to win 3-1 at League One Oxford, while United ended fourth-tier Colchester United's fairytale run with a 3-0 win at Old Trafford. Leicester set up a semi-final meeting with Aston Villa after the Foxes survived a second-half fightback from Everton to secure their place in the last four 4-2 on penalties after a 2-2 draw at Goodison Park. City have won this competition for the past two seasons with Pep Guardiola's only defeat in the League Cup coming to United three years ago. Guardiola's men will have a chance to avenge their 2-1 Premier League defeat to the Red Devils earlier this month when the sides clash over two legs in January. "You always want to win trophies. We've got a nice little draw coming up, it'll be exciting times," said United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. "We've shown before we can do well against City." City made eight changes for the trip to Oxford, but still named a strong side and went ahead through Joao Cancelo's first goal for the English champions midway through the first half. However, Oxford went toe-to-toe with their illustrious visitors all night and levelled through Matty Taylor a minute into the second half. Oxford even had more attempts on target than City but did not have the predatory instincts of Sterling on their side as the England international twice tapped home from close range to spare City's blushes. "It was a tight game with the wind making things difficult but we did well," said Guardiola, who was accompanied by assistant Mikel Arteta despite speculation suggesting he is set to be announced as Arsenal's new manager. "We suffered a lot in the second half. At 2-1 they play long balls with throw-ins, corners and we struggled but it's okay." United patience pays off Manchester United had to be patient before seeing off Colchester, who had beaten Tottenham and Crystal Palace to make the last eight. Marcus Rashford was guilty of missing a host of chances in a goalless first half. However, England forward made amends six minutes into the second period with a calm finish to register a career-best 14th goal of the season. Rashford was also the creator of United's other two goals as Ryan Jackson turned a cross into his own net before Anthony Martial stretched to convert at the back post. Leicester's brilliant season continued as they held their nerve from the spot after blowing a comfortable lead at Everton. The Foxes travel to City in the Premier League on Saturday, but Brendan Rodgers still named a near full-strength side and was rewarded when James Maddison and Jonny Evans struck in five first half minutes to give the visitors a 2-0 half-time lead. But Everton are made of sterner stuff under caretaker manager Duncan Ferguson. Ben Davies gave the Toffees hope 20 minutes from time and a sensational long-range strike from Leighton Baines sent the game to penalties. Maddison then saw his spot-kick saved to start the shootout, but Kasper Schmeichel was Leicester's hero with saves from Cenk Tosun and Baines before Jamie Vardy scored the decisive penalty.

Manchester City to compete Manchester United in League Cup semi-finals derby

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-denies-presence-of-break-clause-in-contract-with-manchester-city-268224">Guardiola</a>&nbsp;said&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;will be at Oxford United on Wednesday for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-gabriel-jesus-hat-trick-gives-man-city-4-1-win-at-dinamo-zagreb-267832">City</a>'s League Cup quarter-final but appears resigned to the prospect of losing his right-hand man.

"I think it (the&nbsp;decision) is going to happen&nbsp;quick,"&nbsp;Guardiola&nbsp;was quoted as saying by the BBC. "Why not [go]? It's a good argument."

Former&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;captain&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;is the leading candidate to succeed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unai-emery-axed-as-arsenal-boss-after-worst-run-in-decades-265245">Unai Emery</a> as&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;manager after the London club's chief executive Vinai Venkatesham was pictured outside the 37-year-old's house in the early hours of Monday morning.

"Mikel is travelling to Oxford with us tomorrow,"&nbsp;Guardiola&nbsp;earlier told reporters. We were so smart to pick him up and the other clubs missed it. He's an incredible person, good manager. Work ethic. That's why he is what he is.

"He's talking with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-stage-comeback-to-sink-west-ham-and-end-winless-run-267402">Arsenal</a>&nbsp;so I don't know. Now he is part of our group and staff and he is here. When we have new news, I will know and you will know. Now he is here, tomorrow travelling. He trained today and that's all."

Spaniard&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;made 149 appearances for&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;before joining City's coaching staff in 2016 where he has enjoyed a successful spell as assistant to&nbsp;Guardiola, helping the club to consecutive Premier League titles&nbsp;over&nbsp;the last two seasons.

Guardiola&nbsp;said he had spoken to&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;about the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mesut-ozil-deceived-by-fake-news-will-be-pleased-to-see-him-go-to-xinjiang-china-268547">Arsenal</a>&nbsp;opportunity and would not stand in his way.

"I am a guy who lets people live with freedom and do what they want because that is what they want in the moment, for their lives, family, professionally and individually," he said.

"Mikel knows exactly what we think about him. After that, we cannot do more."

Guardiola said Arteta will be at Oxford United on Wednesday for City's League Cup quarter-final but appears resigned to the prospect of losing his right-hand man.

Guardiola said Arteta will be at Oxford United on Wednesday for City's League Cup quarter-final but appears resigned to the prospect of losing his right-hand man. "I think it (the decision) is going to happen quick," Guardiola was quoted as saying by the BBC. "Why not [go]? It's a good argument." Former Arsenal captain Arteta is the leading candidate to succeed Unai Emery as Arsenal manager after the London club's chief executive Vinai Venkatesham was pictured outside the 37-year-old's house in the early hours of Monday morning. "Mikel is travelling to Oxford with us tomorrow," Guardiola earlier told reporters. We were so smart to pick him up and the other clubs missed it. He's an incredible person, good manager. Work ethic. That's why he is what he is. "He's talking with Arsenal so I don't know. Now he is part of our group and staff and he is here. When we have new news, I will know and you will know. Now he is here, tomorrow travelling. He trained today and that's all." Spaniard Arteta made 149 appearances for Arsenal before joining City's coaching staff in 2016 where he has enjoyed a successful spell as assistant to Guardiola, helping the club to consecutive Premier League titles over the last two seasons. Guardiola said he had spoken to Arteta about the Arsenal opportunity and would not stand in his way. "I am a guy who lets people live with freedom and do what they want because that is what they want in the moment, for their lives, family, professionally and individually," he said. "Mikel knows exactly what we think about him. After that, we cannot do more."

Manchester City's Pep Guardiola expects quick decision on Arteta over Arsenal move

Chelsea have fined goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga one week's wages following his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-a-big-misunderstanding-chelsea-coach-maurizio-sarri-on-kepa-row-199584">refusal to be substituted</a> in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-survives-defeats-chelsea-in-shootout-after-draw-in-regulation-time-199450">League Cup final</a> defeat by Manchester City at Wembley on Sunday.

Arrizabalaga appeared to be injured as he prevented City's Sergio Aguero from scoring in the closing moments of extra time, and manager Maurizio Sarri ordered his substitution before Chelsea went on to lose the showpiece match 4-3 on penalties.

But with the change already displayed to the stadium by the fourth official, and Chelsea's reserve keeper Willy Caballero ready to come on, Kepa insisted he was fit to carry on and face the penalty shootout -- to the visible anger of Sarri.

The Italian coach said after the match, which finished 0-0, that there had been a "big misunderstanding" because he thought Arrizabalaga had cramp.

On Monday Arrizabalaga said he had apologised to Sarri, his teammates and the fans, while Chelsea fined him for his actions.

"The club has made a decision to fine Kepa one week's wages and donate it to the Chelsea Foundation," the west London club said in a statement on their official website https://www.chelseafc.com/en/news/2019/2/25/kepa-arrizabalaga-and-maurizio-sarri-issue-follow-up-statements-.

Kepa and Sarri also issued statements to clarify their positions following a controversy which captured the headlines around the world.

"I have thought a lot more about yesterday’s events. Although there was a misunderstanding, on reflection, I made a big mistake with how I handled the situation," Kepa said.

"I wanted to take the time today to apologise fully and in person to the coach, to Willy, my team-mates and to the club. I have done this and now I want to offer the same apology to the fans.

"I will learn from this episode and will accept any punishment or discipline the club decides is appropriate."

Sarri said after the match he would discuss the matter with Arrizabalaga, who became the world's most expensive goalkeeper when he joined Chelsea for 80 million euros ($90.87 million) last year.

"Kepa and I have spoken about the incident," Sarri said in his statement on Monday. "It was a good conversation. There was a misunderstanding yesterday but he realises he made a big mistake in the way he reacted.

"He has apologised to me, his teammates and the club. It is up to the club if they want to discipline him according to the club rules, but for me this matter is now closed.

"The team performance as a whole was extremely positive and it is a shame to see how this incident has overshadowed our efforts in what was a very competitive Cup final.

"Everyone’s focus is now on the next game and we must all now put this behind us."

Chelsea next face London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Wednesday at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea have fined goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga one week's wages following his refusal to be substituted in the League Cup final defeat by Manchester City at Wembley on Sunday.

Chelsea have fined goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga one week's wages following his refusal to be substituted in the League Cup final defeat by Manchester City at Wembley on Sunday. Arrizabalaga appeared to be injured as he prevented City's Sergio Aguero from scoring in the closing moments of extra time, and manager Maurizio Sarri ordered his substitution before Chelsea went on to lose the showpiece match 4-3 on penalties. But with the change already displayed to the stadium by the fourth official, and Chelsea's reserve keeper Willy Caballero ready to come on, Kepa insisted he was fit to carry on and face the penalty shootout -- to the visible anger of Sarri. The Italian coach said after the match, which finished 0-0, that there had been a "big misunderstanding" because he thought Arrizabalaga had cramp. On Monday Arrizabalaga said he had apologised to Sarri, his teammates and the fans, while Chelsea fined him for his actions. "The club has made a decision to fine Kepa one week's wages and donate it to the Chelsea Foundation," the west London club said in a statement on their official website https://www.chelseafc.com/en/news/2019/2/25/kepa-arrizabalaga-and-maurizio-sarri-issue-follow-up-statements-. Kepa and Sarri also issued statements to clarify their positions following a controversy which captured the headlines around the world. "I have thought a lot more about yesterday’s events. Although there was a misunderstanding, on reflection, I made a big mistake with how I handled the situation," Kepa said. "I wanted to take the time today to apologise fully and in person to the coach, to Willy, my team-mates and to the club. I have done this and now I want to offer the same apology to the fans. "I will learn from this episode and will accept any punishment or discipline the club decides is appropriate." Sarri said after the match he would discuss the matter with Arrizabalaga, who became the world's most expensive goalkeeper when he joined Chelsea for 80 million euros ($90.87 million) last year. "Kepa and I have spoken about the incident," Sarri said in his statement on Monday. "It was a good conversation. There was a misunderstanding yesterday but he realises he made a big mistake in the way he reacted. "He has apologised to me, his teammates and the club. It is up to the club if they want to discipline him according to the club rules, but for me this matter is now closed. "The team performance as a whole was extremely positive and it is a shame to see how this incident has overshadowed our efforts in what was a very competitive Cup final. "Everyone’s focus is now on the next game and we must all now put this behind us." Chelsea next face London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Wednesday at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga fined one week's wages over Wembley row

Manchester City vs Chelsea: Things we learned from the League Cup final

Chelsea's goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga said that he is "upset and sad" for not being able to take the title as&nbsp;Manchester City&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-survives-defeats-chelsea-in-shootout-after-draw-in-regulation-time-199450">defeated Chelsea 4-3</a>&nbsp;on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.&nbsp;

The match&nbsp;was hit by a controversy surrounding the goalkeeper when he <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-goalkeeper-kepa-arrizabalaga-ignored-coach-maurizio-sarris-decision-to-be-subbed-199479">ignored manager Maurizio Sarri</a>'s decision to substitute him before the penalty shootout.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 24-year-old responded to the issue saying he did not stage a mutiny against coach Sarri.&nbsp;

He said, "At no time has it been my intention to disobey the coach or any of his decisions," Kepa said on Twitter.

"I regret how the end of the match has been portrayed."

"I think everything has been misunderstood in the heat of the final part of the match. My intention was to express that I was in a good position to continue."&nbsp;

"I have full respect for the coach and his authority," he added.&nbsp;

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After the match, he told reporters, "I don’t know how it went out, it is not the best image."&nbsp;

"I have spoken with the boss. I think it was misunderstood.

"I understand that on television, on social media, they’re talking about this but I am here to explain it, to say that it wasn’t my intention to go against the manager.&nbsp;

"We have spoken now, and I was only trying to say I’m fine. He thought I wasn’t fine. It was in tense moments, with a lot happening

"Of course I did [see my number go up on the digital board]. But because of that, it was until the medics had got back to the bench to explain I was fine, that I could continue. It wasn’t that I was refusing to be substituted, it was a way of trying to tell the bench that I was fine.

"I think it was just misunderstood."

Kepa, the world's most expensive goalkeeper, received treatment for an injury in the closing stages but also has a worse record of saving penalties than former City stopper Willy Caballero, who Sarri was trying to introduce.&nbsp;

Chelsea went on to lose the shootout with Arrizabalaga beaten by four of Manchester City's spot kicks, including Raheem Sterling's winning shot - but he did pull of an impressive save to deny Leroy Sane.

Chelsea's goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga said that he is "upset and sad" for not being able to take the title as Manchester City defeated Chelsea 4-3 on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.

Chelsea's goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga said that he is "upset and sad" for not being able to take the title as Manchester City defeated Chelsea 4-3 on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday. The match was hit by a controversy surrounding the goalkeeper when he ignored manager Maurizio Sarri's decision to substitute him before the penalty shootout. The 24-year-old responded to the issue saying he did not stage a mutiny against coach Sarri. He said, "At no time has it been my intention to disobey the coach or any of his decisions," Kepa said on Twitter. "I regret how the end of the match has been portrayed." "I think everything has been misunderstood in the heat of the final part of the match. My intention was to express that I was in a good position to continue." "I have full respect for the coach and his authority," he added. pic.twitter.com/y1moLEZHCq — kepa Arrizabalaga (@kepa_46) February 24, 2019 × After the match, he told reporters, "I don’t know how it went out, it is not the best image." "I have spoken with the boss. I think it was misunderstood. "I understand that on television, on social media, they’re talking about this but I am here to explain it, to say that it wasn’t my intention to go against the manager. "We have spoken now, and I was only trying to say I’m fine. He thought I wasn’t fine. It was in tense moments, with a lot happening "Of course I did [see my number go up on the digital board]. But because of that, it was until the medics had got back to the bench to explain I was fine, that I could continue. It wasn’t that I was refusing to be substituted, it was a way of trying to tell the bench that I was fine. "I think it was just misunderstood." Kepa, the world's most expensive goalkeeper, received treatment for an injury in the closing stages but also has a worse record of saving penalties than former City stopper Willy Caballero, who Sarri was trying to introduce. Chelsea went on to lose the shootout with Arrizabalaga beaten by four of Manchester City's spot kicks, including Raheem Sterling's winning shot - but he did pull of an impressive save to deny Leroy Sane.

Didn't intend to disobey coach or his decisions, says Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga

Manchester City star Vincent Kompany admitted he was stunned to see&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;goalkeeper <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-goalkeeper-kepa-arrizabalaga-ignored-coach-maurizio-sarris-decision-to-be-subbed-199479">Kepa Arrizabalaga refuse to be substituted</a> during an astonishing League Cup final row with Blues boss Maurizio Sarri.&nbsp;

Kepa was set to be replaced in the final moments of extra-time after going down with cramp for the second time in the Wembley clash.&nbsp;

But, as Sarri prepared to send on reserve keeper Willy Caballero, Kepa signalled that he was fit to carry on.&nbsp;

Sarri insisted Kepa come off, but the Spaniard wouldn't budge, leading to a furious meltdown from the&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;boss, who briefly stormed down the tunnel before returning to his post.&nbsp;

The match finished 0-0 and City went onto <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-survives-defeats-chelsea-in-shootout-after-draw-in-regulation-time-199450">win 4-3 on penalties</a>, despite Kepa saving Leroy Sane's effort in the shoot-out.&nbsp;

Kompany, who came on at half-time for the injured Aymeric Laporte, said he had never seen anything like it.&nbsp;

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Here's to you, <a href="https://twitter.com/VincentKompany?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VincentKompany</a>... 💙 
 
🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mancity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mancity</a> <a href="https://t.co/BLrb4vnyw0">pic.twitter.com/BLrb4vnyw0</a>
— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1099783173569957888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Of course I've never seen it. I wish I could do it every now and then when I don't want to get subbed off," Kompany said.&nbsp;

Kompany said he was glad not to face Caballero, who helped City win the 2016 League Cup final by saving three penalties in a shoot-out against Liverpool.&nbsp;

"I know how good Willy is on penalties, when we won this competition against Liverpool he was tremendous, he won the penalties for us and it would be another mind game to be played," Kompany said.&nbsp;

"It didn't happen and the confidence was there to score the penalties."&nbsp;

Former&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;captain John Terry, watching the match as a pundit for Sky Sports, called on Sarri to resolve the situation immediately.&nbsp;

"It will be interesting to see if Kepa plays the next game. If I was in the dressing room I would expect the manager to come in and deal with it straight away," Terry said.&nbsp;

Manchester City star Vincent Kompany admitted he was stunned to see Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga refuse to be substituted during an astonishing League Cup final row with Blues boss Maurizio Sarri.

Manchester City star Vincent Kompany admitted he was stunned to see Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga refuse to be substituted during an astonishing League Cup final row with Blues boss Maurizio Sarri. Kepa was set to be replaced in the final moments of extra-time after going down with cramp for the second time in the Wembley clash. But, as Sarri prepared to send on reserve keeper Willy Caballero, Kepa signalled that he was fit to carry on. Sarri insisted Kepa come off, but the Spaniard wouldn't budge, leading to a furious meltdown from the Chelsea boss, who briefly stormed down the tunnel before returning to his post. The match finished 0-0 and City went onto win 4-3 on penalties, despite Kepa saving Leroy Sane's effort in the shoot-out. Kompany, who came on at half-time for the injured Aymeric Laporte, said he had never seen anything like it. Here's to you, @VincentKompany... 💙 🏆 #mancity pic.twitter.com/BLrb4vnyw0 — Manchester City (@ManCity) February 24, 2019 × "Of course I've never seen it. I wish I could do it every now and then when I don't want to get subbed off," Kompany said. Kompany said he was glad not to face Caballero, who helped City win the 2016 League Cup final by saving three penalties in a shoot-out against Liverpool. "I know how good Willy is on penalties, when we won this competition against Liverpool he was tremendous, he won the penalties for us and it would be another mind game to be played," Kompany said. "It didn't happen and the confidence was there to score the penalties." Former Chelsea captain John Terry, watching the match as a pundit for Sky Sports, called on Sarri to resolve the situation immediately. "It will be interesting to see if Kepa plays the next game. If I was in the dressing room I would expect the manager to come in and deal with it straight away," Terry said.

'I wish I could refuse to come off': Vincent Kompany mocks Kepa row

Manchester City <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-survives-defeats-chelsea-in-shootout-after-draw-in-regulation-time-199450">defeated Chelsea 4-3</a> on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, in a match where Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri dealt with controversy.&nbsp;

The game had ended in a goalless draw after 90 minutes and half an hour of extra time and entered into penalties.&nbsp;

When Sarri saw goal Kepa Arrizabalaga struggling with cramp, he summoned Willy Caballero from the bench.&nbsp;

However, the goalkeeper ignored manager Sarri's decision and&nbsp;refused to leave the field.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:

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Sarri tried to sub off Chelsea's goalkeeper, Kepa...but he refused to leave, and Sarri flipped out 😳 
 
(via <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SkyFootball</a>) <a href="https://t.co/cBWodJDyw3">pic.twitter.com/cBWodJDyw3</a>
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Kepa, the world's most expensive goalkeeper, received treatment for an injury in the closing stages but also has a worse record of saving penalties than former City stopper Willy Caballero, who Sarri was trying to introduce.&nbsp;

Chelsea went on to lose the shootout with Arrizabalaga beaten by four of Manchester City's spot kicks, including Raheem Sterling's winning shot - but he did pull of an impressive save to deny Leroy Sane.

Manchester City defeated Chelsea 4-3 on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, in a match where Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri dealt with controversy.

Manchester City defeated Chelsea 4-3 on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, in a match where Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri dealt with controversy. The game had ended in a goalless draw after 90 minutes and half an hour of extra time and entered into penalties. When Sarri saw goal Kepa Arrizabalaga struggling with cramp, he summoned Willy Caballero from the bench. However, the goalkeeper ignored manager Sarri's decision and refused to leave the field. Watch the video here: Sarri tried to sub off Chelsea's goalkeeper, Kepa...but he refused to leave, and Sarri flipped out 😳 (via @SkyFootball) pic.twitter.com/cBWodJDyw3 — Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 24, 2019 × Kepa, the world's most expensive goalkeeper, received treatment for an injury in the closing stages but also has a worse record of saving penalties than former City stopper Willy Caballero, who Sarri was trying to introduce. Chelsea went on to lose the shootout with Arrizabalaga beaten by four of Manchester City's spot kicks, including Raheem Sterling's winning shot - but he did pull of an impressive save to deny Leroy Sane.

Watch: Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga ignores coach Maurizio Sarri's decision to be subbed

A more pragmatic than normal Manchester City, which for many minutes was at the mercy of Chelsea, managed to survive their Sunday match at Wembley Stadium, battling their rivals to a scoreless draw in regulation and 30 minutes of extra time but then prevailing 4-3 in a shootout to win the English Football League Cup final. 
 
Just prior to the shootout - during which Raheem Sterling scored the winning tally for Man City - Chelsea's Spanish goaltender, Kepa Arrizabalaga, refused to leave the pitch even though coach Maurizio Sarri had decided to replace him with Willy Caballero, a virtually unprecedented flouting of a manager's will. 
 
With the win, Man City captured its first trophy of the campaign, but three others are still pending as the squad is just one point in back of Liverpool, who leads the Premier League, and has already gotten into the elimination stages of the Champions League and FA cup quarterfinals. 
 
This is Man City's sixth English Football League Cup title 
 
It was during the second 15-minute period of extra time that it looked like Arrizabalaga had injured his hand fighting for a loose ball, whereupon Sarri decided to replace him. But the goalkeeper waved off the substitution and repeatedly signaled to the coach that he was uninjured and intended to keep playing, bringing a look of mingled shock, frustration and rage to Sarri's face. 
 
Two weeks ago, Chelsea was smashed by City 6-0 in Premier League competition, and they played carefully and cautiously all evening on Sunday. 
 
Scoring for Pep Guardiola's City during the shootout were Ilkay Gundogan, Sergio Aguero and Bernardo Silva, although Arrizabalaga saved Leroy Sane's shot, before Sterling delivered his winning strike. 
 
Meanwhile, for Chelsea, Ederson saved Jorginho's penalty kick and David Luiz ricocheted one off the post, although Cesar Azplicueta, Emerson and Eden Hazard did manage to sink their shots. 
 
The big question after Arrizabalaga's insubordination and Sarri's backing down is now what will become of the Italian manager and the team, but during the match Sarri implemented a smart strategy all the way through. 
 
It was Bernardo Silva who shone brightly for City, and - although Fernandinho was injured and the team was not at peak performance - they still managed to find the combination to bottle up Chelsea in their half of the pitch during regulation and extra time and to sink the penalty kicks when it counted. 
 
During the match, City retained the ball 61 percent of the time, firing 13 shots (only 3 of which were on target) to Chelsea's 7 (none of which were). Meanwhile, City committed 22 fouls to Chelsea's 7. 
 
Regardless of anything else, however, it is apparent that the match will be remembered for the unusual and potentially poisonous Arrizabalaga-Sarri confrontation.

A more pragmatic than normal Manchester City, which for many minutes was at the mercy of Chelsea, managed to survive their Sunday match at Wembley Stadium, battling their rivals to a scoreless draw in regulation and 30 minutes of extra time but then prevailing 4-3 in a shootout to win the English Football League Cup final.

A more pragmatic than normal Manchester City, which for many minutes was at the mercy of Chelsea, managed to survive their Sunday match at Wembley Stadium, battling their rivals to a scoreless draw in regulation and 30 minutes of extra time but then prevailing 4-3 in a shootout to win the English Football League Cup final. Just prior to the shootout - during which Raheem Sterling scored the winning tally for Man City - Chelsea's Spanish goaltender, Kepa Arrizabalaga, refused to leave the pitch even though coach Maurizio Sarri had decided to replace him with Willy Caballero, a virtually unprecedented flouting of a manager's will. With the win, Man City captured its first trophy of the campaign, but three others are still pending as the squad is just one point in back of Liverpool, who leads the Premier League, and has already gotten into the elimination stages of the Champions League and FA cup quarterfinals. This is Man City's sixth English Football League Cup title It was during the second 15-minute period of extra time that it looked like Arrizabalaga had injured his hand fighting for a loose ball, whereupon Sarri decided to replace him. But the goalkeeper waved off the substitution and repeatedly signaled to the coach that he was uninjured and intended to keep playing, bringing a look of mingled shock, frustration and rage to Sarri's face. Two weeks ago, Chelsea was smashed by City 6-0 in Premier League competition, and they played carefully and cautiously all evening on Sunday. Scoring for Pep Guardiola's City during the shootout were Ilkay Gundogan, Sergio Aguero and Bernardo Silva, although Arrizabalaga saved Leroy Sane's shot, before Sterling delivered his winning strike. Meanwhile, for Chelsea, Ederson saved Jorginho's penalty kick and David Luiz ricocheted one off the post, although Cesar Azplicueta, Emerson and Eden Hazard did manage to sink their shots. The big question after Arrizabalaga's insubordination and Sarri's backing down is now what will become of the Italian manager and the team, but during the match Sarri implemented a smart strategy all the way through. It was Bernardo Silva who shone brightly for City, and - although Fernandinho was injured and the team was not at peak performance - they still managed to find the combination to bottle up Chelsea in their half of the pitch during regulation and extra time and to sink the penalty kicks when it counted. During the match, City retained the ball 61 percent of the time, firing 13 shots (only 3 of which were on target) to Chelsea's 7 (none of which were). Meanwhile, City committed 22 fouls to Chelsea's 7. Regardless of anything else, however, it is apparent that the match will be remembered for the unusual and potentially poisonous Arrizabalaga-Sarri confrontation.

Manchester City survives, defeats Chelsea in shootout after draw in regulation time

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-survives-defeats-chelsea-in-shootout-after-draw-in-regulation-time-199450">Manchester City beat Chelsea </a>4-3 on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, however, the match ended with controversies and misunderstandings.&nbsp;

Chelsea's Italian coach Maurizio Sarri <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-a-big-misunderstanding-chelsea-coach-maurizio-sarri-on-kepa-row-199584">dealt with a controversy</a> surrounding goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.&nbsp;

But the mood lightened up when Sarri was lost in a funny translation while explaining the incident to the reporters.&nbsp;

During the post-match&nbsp;press conference, he said, "Of course, as I said before, he [referring to&nbsp;Kepa Arrizabalaga] was right for the motivation but not for the conduct... not condom."&nbsp;

Sarri ended the press conference by clarifying that he had said 'conduct' in relation to the Kepa incident and not 'condom'.&nbsp;

In the match, watching Arrizabalaga appearing to struggle with cramp, and with a penalty shootout looming to settle the important clash, Sarri summoned Willy Caballero from the bench.&nbsp;

But controversially, Arrizabalaga refused to leave the field.&nbsp;

The goalkeeper said that he is "upset and sad" for not being able to take the title and did not stage a mutiny against the&nbsp;coach.&nbsp;

Chelsea went on to lose the shootout with Arrizabalaga beaten by four of Manchester City's spot kicks, including Raheem Sterling's winning shot - but he did pull of an impressive save to deny Leroy Sane.&nbsp;

The game had ended in a goalless draw after 90 minutes and half an hour of extra time.

Manchester City beat Chelsea 4-3 on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, however, the match ended with controversies and misunderstandings.

Manchester City beat Chelsea 4-3 on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, however, the match ended with controversies and misunderstandings. Chelsea's Italian coach Maurizio Sarri dealt with a controversy surrounding goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. But the mood lightened up when Sarri was lost in a funny translation while explaining the incident to the reporters. During the post-match press conference, he said, "Of course, as I said before, he [referring to Kepa Arrizabalaga] was right for the motivation but not for the conduct... not condom." Sarri ended the press conference by clarifying that he had said 'conduct' in relation to the Kepa incident and not 'condom'. In the match, watching Arrizabalaga appearing to struggle with cramp, and with a penalty shootout looming to settle the important clash, Sarri summoned Willy Caballero from the bench. But controversially, Arrizabalaga refused to leave the field. The goalkeeper said that he is "upset and sad" for not being able to take the title and did not stage a mutiny against the coach. Chelsea went on to lose the shootout with Arrizabalaga beaten by four of Manchester City's spot kicks, including Raheem Sterling's winning shot - but he did pull of an impressive save to deny Leroy Sane. The game had ended in a goalless draw after 90 minutes and half an hour of extra time.

Chelsea's Italian coach Maurizio Sarri lost in funny translation