Kevin De Bruyne rescued Manchester City from an FA Cup upset as they came from behind to beat third-tier Leyton Orient 2-1 in the fourth round at Brisbane Road.
City faced an early scare when Jamie Donley’s long-range strike ricocheted off the crossbar and rebounded off goalkeeper Stefan Ortega to put Orient ahead. Pep Guardiola’s side struggled to break down a resilient Orient defense but finally found an equalizer in the 56th minute when Uzbekistan defender Abdukodir Khusanov diverted Rico Lewis’s shot into the net for his first City goal since joining in January.
With a crucial Champions League clash against Real Madrid just days away, Guardiola turned to his bench, introducing De Bruyne, who made an instant impact. The Belgian playmaker fired home the winner 11 minutes from time, ensuring City’s place in the fifth round.
“It was a typical FA Cup game; that’s why this competition is so special,” Guardiola said. “We knew it would be tough, but we showed great character.”
However, the victory came at a cost, as City’s new £50 million signing, Nico Gonzalez, limped off just 22 minutes into his debut.
Southampton’s Misery Deepens as Burnley Secure Shock Win
At St Mary’s, Southampton’s nightmare season continued as they crashed out with a 1-0 loss to second-tier Burnley. Marcus Edwards, making his debut after joining on loan from Sporting Lisbon, scored the winner in the 77th minute, sealing Burnley’s place in the next round.
Everton Crash Out as Bournemouth Cruise to Victory
Bournemouth secured a 2-0 win at Goodison Park, ending Everton’s FA Cup hopes. Antoine Semenyo converted a 23rd-minute penalty after being fouled by James Tarkowski before Dan Jebbison doubled the lead before halftime.
Elsewhere in the FA Cup
Rodrigo Muniz scored twice as Fulham edged Wigan 2-1.
Ipswich thrashed Coventry 4-1 to keep their cup run alive.
Millwall stunned Championship leaders Leeds with a 2-0 victory, thanks to Femi Azeez’s double.
Later on Saturday, Chelsea visit Brighton, while Newcastle face Birmingham as the FA Cup action continues.
