Manchester City secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Championship side Watford at Etihad Stadium, booking their spot in the Carabao Cup fourth round.
Pep Guardiola’s heavily rotated lineup delivered the desired result, despite a late scare.
Jeremy Doku opened the scoring after just five minutes, capitalizing on Watford’s defensive mistake.
Matheus Nunes doubled the lead before halftime, netting his first goal for the club with a 20-yard strike.
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Watford had opportunities on the break, but Kwadwo Baah’s goal was disallowed for a foul, and Vakoun Bayo missed a free header.
City substitute Savinho came close to scoring, hitting the post and having a shot cleared off the line.
Tom Ince‘s curled effort four minutes from time reduced the deficit, but Watford couldn’t find the equalizer.
The win comes as a relief for City, following draws against Inter Milan and Arsenal, compounded by Rodri’s serious injury.
Guardiola, seeking a fifth Carabao Cup title, will rely on squad players and youngsters like James McAtee, Rico Lewis, Kaden Braithwaite, and Nico O’Reilly to drive the team’s campaign.
