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City Clinch Fifth FA Youth Cup with Late Heskey Winner

BBC Sport Football •
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Reigan Heskey struck a late goal to give Manchester City U18 a 2-1 win over Manchester United in the FA Youth Cup final at Joie Stadium. The match, played before 7,000 in a venue chosen after Etihad construction, saw City claim their fifth title.

The game swung early when Floyd Samba curled a 25‑yard free‑kick into the top corner, giving United an initial lead. Two minutes later, Godwill Kukonki equalised with a header from a Jim Thwaites cross‑field pass, forcing the match into extra time.

City’s defence held firm against United’s attack, with goalkeeper Cameron Byrne‑Hughes making key saves. Heskey’s decisive effort came five minutes from time, powering a shot from the angle past Byrne‑Hughes to seal the victory.

Pep Guardiola praised the academy’s output, noting the win underscores the club’s success in developing young talent. The triumph solidifies City’s dominance in youth competitions and adds a prestigious trophy to the club’s cabinet.