Manchester City Demolish Exeter 10-1 in Historic FA Cup Victory

Introduction: A Statement Performance at the Etihad

Manchester City began their 2025-26 FA Cup campaign in spectacular fashion, thrashing League One side Exeter City 10-1 in the third round at the Etihad Stadium. This emphatic victory not only showcased City’s attacking prowess but also marked their biggest win since beating Huddersfield by the same scoreline in 1987. The result sends a powerful message as Pep Guardiola’s men pursue what would be a record fourth successive Emirates FA Cup final appearance.

Match Highlights: Goals Galore at the Etihad

Max Alleyne opened the scoring from close range before a Rodri thunderbolt doubled the advantage, with City going four ahead before the break through own goals. The second half brought more of the same dominance. New signing Antoine Semenyo scored on his Manchester City debut, whilst Rico Lewis netted twice. Tijjani Reijnders, Nico O’Reilly and Academy winger Ryan McAidoo also found the net before Exeter’s consolation goal.

What This Means for City’s FA Cup Campaign

Following this commanding performance, City will welcome Salford or Swindon Town to the Etihad Stadium for their FA Cup fourth round tie, scheduled for around the weekend of Saturday 14 February. After consecutive 1-1 draws against Chelsea and Brighton in the Premier League left them six points behind leaders Arsenal, this emphatic cup victory provides a much-needed confidence boost. For City supporters, the FA Cup offers another route to silverware as Guardiola’s squad aims to maintain their dominance in English football whilst competing on multiple fronts this season.