Manchester City survived an almighty scare from Southampton to reach their fourth consecutive FA Cup final, beating the Saints 2-1 at Wembley. Finn Azaz's 79th-minute screamer looked like causing an upset before Jeremy Doku and Nico Gonzalez secured victory. City face Chelsea or Leeds on May 16.

The result keeps City's domestic treble dream alive with six games in 21 days. They sit three points behind Arsenal having played a game fewer, and host Aston Villa in their final league game. Guardiola made eight changes, keeping Erling Haaland, Bernardo Silva and other key players fresh.

Guardiola's decision to grant his squad three days off could prove crucial in the title race. While Arsenal face Champions League and Premier League fixtures before City even kick a ball again, City's capacity to find an extra gear when challenged defines their championship mentality. Opta's model gives Arsenal a 72.44 per cent chance of winning the league, but history suggests the final chapter is far from written.