บท 20: Second Leg of League Cup
On January 28, 2015, Pellegrini essentially fielded an Under-21 team for an away match against Sheffield United. Maffeo and Adarabioyo's wishes were granted; both players, who had joined the U21 squad earlier in January, were able to make their debut together.
Seeing City deploy their U21 team, Sheffield United thought they could achieve a miracle and turn the game around. However, Kenneth's goal in the 3rd minute quickly reminded them that, despite being a youth team, City was no pushover.
Kenneth's opening goal came after he, Maffeo, and Brandon Barker dismantled Sheffield's defense with their teamwork.
Unlike the senior team, Kenneth, who had been playing with the U21 squad for several months, demonstrated deep chemistry with all his teammates.
In the 14th minute, a counterattack by Sheffield United resulted in an equalizing goal. However, Kenneth's presence helped the U21 players respond calmly to the setback.
Sure enough, they regained the lead. Bersant Celina played a through ball to Kenneth, who dribbled forward before passing it across the penalty box. Pozo appeared at the far post to tap the ball into the net.
As the game progressed, Manchester City continued to press Sheffield United, leveraging their pace and creativity to exploit gaps in the opposition's defense. The midfield trio—Kenneth Lee, George Evans, and Bersant Celina—controlled the tempo, frequently switching play across the flanks to stretch Sheffield's defense and create attacking opportunities.
In the 38th minute, another chance emerged when City's left-back, Pablo Maffeo, sprinted down the wing. Spotting Brandon Barker making a forward run, Maffeo delivered a precise pass down the line. Barker used his agility and quick footwork to cut inside past two defenders before delivering a low cross toward the edge of the six-yard box. Kenneth, charging forward, met the cross with a well-timed shot, but a Sheffield defender heroically blocked it at the last second.
Shortly after, Pozo found himself in a one-on-one situation after receiving a sharp pass from George Evans, who commanded the defensive midfield with confidence and composure. Pozo dribbled past his marker and fired a powerful shot aimed at the bottom corner, but the Sheffield goalkeeper stretched just enough to deflect it wide. City's players exchanged nods of encouragement, appreciating the relentless pressure they were applying.
As halftime approached, City maintained their 2-1 lead. Pellegrini praised the players, especially those making their debut, while reminding them to stay focused in the second half.
The second half of Manchester City's League Cup match against Sheffield United began with the home team pushing hard for an equalizer. They launched several aggressive attacks, keeping City's defense on high alert. However, City's young players, guided by the composed leadership of Kenneth Lee, managed to remain calm, absorbing the pressure and waiting for counterattacking opportunities.
In the 54th minute, Sheffield came dangerously close to equalizing when a low cross zipped through City's box. Angus Gunn reacted swiftly, diving to make a crucial save and deflecting the ball just wide of the post. City's defenders regrouped, cleared the danger, and reorganized to protect their lead.
City continued their offensive efforts, with Kenneth taking charge in midfield and orchestrating attacks. In the 67th minute, he spotted Maffeo making an unmarked run down the left flank. Kenneth signaled for the cross, and Maffeo responded with a pinpoint delivery into the box. Sheffield's defenders crowded the penalty area, anticipating a headed effort, but Kenneth had something extraordinary in mind.
As the ball floated toward him, Kenneth leaped into the air, positioning his body sideways, and executed a breathtaking bicycle kick. His foot struck the ball cleanly, sending it soaring past the stunned goalkeeper and into the back of the net.
The moment the ball crossed the line, Kenneth's teammates erupted in excitement, rushing to him in awe. George Evans was the first to reach him, throwing an arm around Kenneth's shoulders and grinning widely.
"That was insane, Lee! Where did you even learn that?" Evans exclaimed, shaking his head in disbelief.
Brandon Barker, still catching his breath, slapped Kenneth on the back. "You made that look effortless! Absolute class, mate!"
Even Iheanacho, usually calm, couldn't hide his amazement. "If you keep scoring like this, maybe we should switch positions," he joked. "That was unreal."
Kenneth, still recovering his breath, managed a modest smile. "Thanks, lads. I just went for it."
The team's celebration continued, their excitement fueling the energy on the pitch. The admiration of his teammates reminded Kenneth that this was a goal to cherish—a defining moment in a match that would undoubtedly be remembered.
Despite the setback, Sheffield refused to give up and managed to pull one back in the 78th minute, making it 3-2 and reigniting their hopes for a comeback. However, City responded immediately and decisively.
In the 85th minute, Sheffield pushed players forward for a corner, desperate to equalize. City's defense held firm, with George Evans clearing the ball upfield. Bersant Celina quickly picked up the loose ball and delivered a perfect through pass to Kelechi Iheanacho. Sprinting past the last defender, Iheanacho left him trailing and, with composure, slotted the ball past the advancing goalkeeper, sealing the game at 4-2.
The final whistle blew soon after, confirming Manchester City's 4-2 victory.
Manchester City's journey in the League Cup would now continue to the final, where they would face their league rivals, Chelsea.
In the post-match press conference, Pellegrini addressed questions about his decision to rest Kenneth in matches against teams like Middlesbrough and Arsenal.
"He's a tremendously talented young player. Every time I see him play, I know he'll produce something extraordinary. He is the future of English football.
It's impossible to dislike him—no coach could dislike a player like that. I admire him a lot, and I truly hope he succeeds in the future.
That's exactly why I didn't play him in some matches. The Premier League is a highly demanding league! I don't want him to get injured or burn out; I want him to develop properly.
As you've seen, I've given him many opportunities, whether in the League Cup or the Premier League. I hope people don't misunderstand my intentions."
Pellegrini's remarks were well-received by fans. After hearing his explanation, many agreed that the Chilean manager was making the right decisions.
While Pellegrini was addressing the media, Kenneth added three points to his stats from this match: agility, balance, and pace.
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