Kevin De Bruyne’s 79th-minute strike ensured Manchester City narrowly avoided an FA Cup upset, securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory over a spirited Leyton Orient in a dramatic fourth-round encounter at Brisbane Road.
The League One underdogs took an unexpected lead in the 16th minute through Jamie Donley, who produced a moment of brilliance. The Tottenham loanee spotted City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega off his line and unleashed a sensational 40-yard lob that deflected off Ortega before finding the back of the net. The goal sent the home crowd into wild celebrations and set the tone for a tense and thrilling contest.
City, still reeling from a 5-1 thrashing by Arsenal the previous weekend, struggled to impose their usual dominance. Leyton Orient defended resolutely and posed a constant threat on the counterattack, forcing Pep Guardiola to introduce key players in the second half.
City eventually equalized in the 56th minute when substitute Abdukodir Khusanov deflected Rico Lewis’ shot past Orient’s goalkeeper, leveling the score and giving the visitors a lifeline.
With the game hanging in the balance, Guardiola brought on Kevin De Bruyne, whose experience and composure proved decisive. The Belgian maestro calmly slotted home the winner in the 79th minute after a clever exchange of passes, breaking the hearts of Orient’s players and their Manchester United-supporting manager, Richie Wellens.
Despite the defeat, Leyton Orient earned widespread praise for their spirited performance, with Donley’s goal marking one of the standout moments of the tournament so far. Guardiola acknowledged their effort, stating, “They pushed us to the limit and showed tremendous character.”
City’s victory sees them advance to the fifth round of the FA Cup, but the match highlighted vulnerabilities that Guardiola’s side will need to address as they aim to retain the title.
Meanwhile, Leyton Orient exited the competition with their heads held high, earning admiration from fans and neutrals alike for their valiant display.
The FA Cup fifth-round draw will take place on Monday evening.
