SOUTHAMPTON: After a shocking 2-0 loss to struggling Southampton in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, champion Manchester City was eliminated from the League Cup.
Sekou Mara and Moussa Djenepo from Southampton, who are last in the Premier League, scored twice in the first half, but City never really tried to get back into the game.
The hosts doubled their lead five minutes later when Djenepo spotted City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega off his line and curled a stunning effort into the top corner. In the 23rd minute, Mara made a strong connection with a whipped cross by Lyanco.
The introduction of Kevin de Bruyne and Erling Haaland as substitutes in the second half failed to ignite a revival for Pep Guardiola's City, who have won the League Cup six times since 2014.
New Southampton manager Nathan Jones was praised by Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse, who told Sky Sports that his team played without fear.
"This is a memorable evening. When you're struggling in the league, these games are special to play in. We were aware that this was a great showcase and a distraction from the league. We didn't show fear.
"When you're in our position, it's always hard. We have received new ideas and energy from the manager, who has been excellent. He desired that we act boldly and aggressively.
"In the past, we have been guilty of having a halftime result and dropping off. We demonstrated a distinct aspect of our game. The victory was entirely ours to win."
City entered the match having defeated Chelsea 4-0 in the FA Cup on Sunday, but they were unable to replicate their free-scoring performance.
Joao Cancelo, Jack Grealish, Ilkay Gundogan, and Kalvin Phillips were all named to a strong team by manager Pep Guardiola. However, aside from one early shot by Gundogan that went wide, the team didn't do much to change the game.
Grealish made the mistake that led to the hosts' first goal. He gave Lycano possession, and Lycano raced up the wing and crossed to Mara.
Since Jones took over in November, his team hasn't improved in the Premier League, but they have won all three of their cup games against Lincoln City, Crystal Palace, and now City.