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Published on 2024-03-01 14:50:16
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has shared his thoughts on the upcoming Emirates FA Cup quarter-final draw against Manchester City. The match is set to take place at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, March 16th, with Pep Guardiola and Eddie Howe facing off for the fourth time this season.
Revealing his reaction to drawing Manchester City in the quarter-finals, Howe said: “I was driving at the time and I almost swerved off the road! It wasn’t the draw we wanted, that’s for sure.
“I’m not sure anybody wants to play Manchester City four times in a season, but I believe we can beat anybody when we’re at our best.”
If Newcastle triumph over Manchester City, they will advance to a semi-final match at Wembley Stadium. The Magpies have already demonstrated their ability to defeat City this season, having knocked them out of the League Cup with a 1-0 victory at St James’ Park in September.
Despite this success, Manchester City has emerged victorious in both of their Premier League encounters with Newcastle this season. The reigning FA Cup champions are looking to defend their title following their historic win over Manchester United last season.
City’s only loss to Newcastle in their previous 12 meetings was in the Carabao Cup, making them formidable opponents. Guardiola has faced Newcastle on 16 previous occasions, showcasing his experience against the Magpies.
As the competition progresses, teams like Wolves, Coventry, Chelsea, Leicester City, Manchester United, and Liverpool still remain in the mix. Howe expressed his surprise at drawing Manchester City in the quarter-finals, acknowledging the challenge but expressing confidence in his team’s ability to compete.
Newcastle advanced to the quarter-finals with a penalty shoot-out victory over Blackburn Rovers, while Manchester City secured their spot with a dominating 6-2 win over Luton Town. The Sky Blues, led by five goals from Erling Haaland and a stunning strike from Mateo Kovacic, have also defeated Huddersfield Town and Tottenham in the current FA Cup campaign.
The quarter-final clash promises an exciting showdown between two talented teams, with both Newcastle and Manchester City aiming for a spot in the prestigious semi-finals at Wembley Stadium.
Read Original article on City Xtra
