FA Cup Fifth Round: Live Updates on Goals as Teams Battle to Advance
The FA Cup action is back with some exciting fifth-round ties currently being played. Defending champions Manchester City are off to a strong start, leading 2-0 against Luton with a double from Erling Haaland. Meanwhile, Newcastle looks to bounce back from their recent defeat against Arsenal as they take on Blackburn. Bournemouth is hosting Championship leaders Leicester at the Vitality Stadium.
Manchester City Dominates Luton
Manchester City wasted no time in asserting their dominance over Luton. In the 10th minute, they took the lead with a goal from Haaland. The play started from inside their own area, with Akanji breaking out and passing the ball down the left. Matheus Nunes held the ball, allowing Kevin de Bruyne to make a run behind the defense. De Bruyne then played a pass to Haaland, who adjusted his body position and slammed it in at the near post.
Just 20 minutes into the game, Haaland struck again, doubling Manchester City’s lead. This time, De Bruyne provided the assist, setting up Haaland with a pass from the halfway line. The Norwegian forward showed great pace and power as he raced through Luton’s half and smashed the ball beyond Krul from the edge of the area.
Blackburn and Newcastle Locked in a Battle
In the match between Blackburn and Newcastle, both teams are still searching for a breakthrough. The game started with chances at both ends. Szmodics came close to scoring for Blackburn, but Dubravka made a superb save to deny him. On the other end, Trippier set up Longstaff with a pass down the right, but his shot was kept out and put behind for a corner.
Newcastle gradually grew into the game, with Willock and Isak combining well to win a corner. They had another opportunity from a free kick, but the delivery was too deep and easily cleared by Blackburn. However, the home team also had their chances, with Gallagher’s shot taking a deflection off Schar before being claimed by Dubravka.
Controversy at Ewood Park
The game between Blackburn and Newcastle faced a short suspension due to fan protests. Blackburn fans threw tennis balls onto the pitch to voice their dissatisfaction with the club’s ownership. Although the number of tennis balls was not significant, it was enough to halt the game momentarily while they were cleared.
Bournemouth and Leicester Battle for the Opener
The match between Bournemouth and Leicester has yet to see a goal. Both teams had their opportunities, with Leicester coming close through Cannon’s free header and Albrighton hitting the post. Marcal also tested the Bournemouth goalkeeper with a curled effort from outside the box, but Travers made a great save to deny him.
Eddie Howe’s Desire for FA Cup Success
Before the games kicked off, Eddie Howe expressed his desire to take Newcastle back to Wembley and achieve success in the FA Cup. He emphasized that the FA Cup is their biggest focus at the moment and that they do not underestimate Blackburn. Howe recalled their Carabao Cup run last year and how it brought back memories of being involved in a cup competition.
Exciting Matches and Anticipation
The FA Cup fifth round has provided fans with exciting matches and thrilling moments. As the games continue, the anticipation builds for more goals and dramatic performances. Stay tuned for live updates on these matches as teams battle it out to advance in the competition.