Omar Marmoush scored twice as Manchester City dismantled Newcastle United 3-1 at the Etihad to secure a 5-1 aggregate semi-final victory.
Pep Guardiola’s side produced a breathless first-half display on Wednesday night to ensure there would be no comeback for the Magpies.
Any early nerves were settled after just seven minutes when Marmoush’s effort deflected off Dan Burn and looped over Aaron Ramsdale.
Marmoush added a second with a clinical header on the half-hour mark, before Tijjani Reijnders effectively ended the contest by slotting home a third before the interval.
Newcastle, missing several key players, struggled to contain City’s rhythm but did find a late consolation through Anthony Elanga.
Despite the dominant performance, Guardiola faces a fresh concern as captain Bernardo Silva is a major doubt for this weekend’s crucial trip to Anfield with an injury.
The 5-1 aggregate win sends City to their first League Cup final since 2021, setting up a tantalising “Big Two” showdown with Arsenal at Wembley next month.