By Karim Hammam
Manchester City advanced to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals after a 4-3 penalty shoot-out win over Brighton following a 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday.
Maresca admits no penalty practice
Manager Enzo Maresca revealed his side had not practised penalties since his arrival, but praised the five players who converted their spot-kicks. Phil Foden, Enzo Fernandez, Jeremy Doku and Rayan Cherki scored, while Mateo Kovacic missed but Rulli saved two Brighton penalties.
Rulli shines in goal
Backup goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli made two saves in the shoot-out, denying Yasin Ayari and Lewis Dunk. Maresca commended Rulli's overall performance, including his distribution and a key save during regular time.
Comeback and Doku impact
City twice came from behind. Malick Yalcouye opened scoring for Brighton, Kovacic equalised before half-time. Georginio Rutter restored Brighton's lead, but Vitor Reis diverted a Cherki free-kick to force penalties. Maresca said substitute Doku made an impact, changing the game's momentum.
Rotation justified
Maresca made nine changes, resting Erling Haaland, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Ruben Dias, Elliot Anderson and Josko Gvardiol. He expressed satisfaction with the rotated side's performance.
Brighton rue missed chances
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler felt his side were unlucky, citing missed chances and conceding "unlucky" goals. He vowed to reset ahead of Saturday's Premier League rematch at the Etihad.
