Nwaneri shines as Arsenal reach FA Youth Cup final after beating Manchester City 

Arsenal progressed to the final of the FA Youth Cup after beating Manchester City 2-1 in a dramatic game at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night.

Manager Jack Wilshere named Ethan Nwaneri in the starting lineup , with the versatile 16-year-old playing in a more advanced position, while Henry Timi Davies was omitted from the matchday squad, having recovered from a long-term injury. 

The Citizens had a mountain to climb as they were down to ten men inside six minutes after fullback Lakyle Samuel was shown a straight red card for bringing down Omari Benjamin who was through on goal. 

Michal Rosiak took advantage of the free-kick awarded, slotting it home despite the goalkeeper's best attempts to keep it out. 

Nwaneri came close to doubling the advantage on at least two occasions but either his shot went wide or was blocked. 

The Polish defender's strike ensured the Young Gunners went into the break with a slender one-goal advantage.

Arsenal were made to pay for their missed chances in the second half as Justin Oboavwoduo finished from close range to restore parity in the 75th minute, which eventually sent the game to extra-time. 

Nwaneri was suffering from cramps and was replaced by Seb Ferdinand in the 112nd minute. 

Myles Lewis-Skelly scored the decisive goal in stoppage time of extra-time, heading home a delivery from Ibrahim. 

Arsenal will face the winner of the second semifinal between West Ham United and Southampton in the showpiece. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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