Manchester City launched their defense of the EFL Cup with a dominant 5-0 victory over Norwich City at the Etihad Stadium, securing safe passage to the fourth round of the competition.
Seventeen-year-old academy graduate Floyd Samba stole the show on his senior debut, leading the line in place of the rested Erling Haaland and scoring twice. Manager Enzo Maresca introduced 10 changes following Sunday’s derby win over Manchester United, but the rotated side displayed relentless attacking fluidity from the opening whistle.
Samba opened the scoring in the 29th minute, rising to head home a delivery from fellow debutant Allan Elias. Three minutes later, Rayan Cherki doubled City’s advantage when Ayyoub Bouaddi sent him through on goal to finish low past Norwich goalkeeper Daniel Grimshaw.
City maintained their momentum in the second half as Allan Elias scored his first goal for the club in the 48th minute, cutting in from the flank to drill a low strike into the far corner. Samba then completed his brace six minutes later, receiving a pass from Rayan Aït-Nouri before curling a clinical finish beyond Grimshaw.
Substitute Ryan McAidoo capped off the scoring in the 90th minute, finishing off a sweeping team move to seal the 5-0 win. Norwich thought they had grabbed a late consolation through Mohamed Touré, but the effort was ruled out for offside.
The victory extends Manchester City’s winning streak to six matches in all competitions. The holders now advance to the fourth round, where they will host Brighton & Hove Albion at the Etihad Stadium in the week commencing October 26.
