Manchester City Secure Historic Domestic Treble with FA Cup Triumph
On May 18, 2019, Manchester City entered Wembley Stadium with a historic ambition: to become the first club in English football history to achieve the domestic treble—winning the Premier League, the League Cup, and the FA Cup in a single season. Having already secured the league title and the League Cup, the stage was set for a decisive clash against Watford.
The match carried significant weight for both sides. For Manchester City, it was their eleventh FA Cup Final appearance. For Watford, it was their first since 1984. Despite Watford's resilience throughout the season, City entered the match as heavy favorites, having dominated their previous Premier League encounters that year.
Key Facts
- Final Score: Manchester City 6–0 Watford.
- Historic Achievement: Manchester City became the first English club to win the domestic treble.
- Attendance: 85,854 spectators at Wembley Stadium.
- Man of the Match: Kevin De Bruyne.
- Goal Scorers: David Silva, Gabriel Jesus (2), Kevin De Bruyne, and Raheem Sterling (2).
Match Preparation and Lineups
The officiating team was led by referee Kevin Friend, supported by a full VAR (Video Assistant Referee) team headed by Andre Marriner. The atmosphere was heightened by the traditional performance of "Abide with Me" by the Band of the Scots Guards and a mixed choir, with the trophy presented by former players Luther Blissett and Tony Book in the presence of Prince William, Duke of Cambridge.
Watford's squad saw the return of left-back José Holebas after a red card from the final league game was rescinded. The match also served as the professional farewell for goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes. Manchester City, managed by Pep Guardiola, started Gabriel Jesus up front, while star playmaker Kevin De Bruyne began the game on the bench.
First Half: City Takes Control
The match began with high intensity. While Watford attempted to counter-attack, with Roberto Pereyra forcing a save from Ederson, Manchester City's possession-based game eventually broke through. In the 26th minute, David Silva opened the scoring, firing across Gomes following a header from Raheem Sterling.
City continued to press, and in the 38th minute, Gabriel Jesus doubled the lead with a precise side-footed finish. Despite a few moments of pressure from Watford and a disallowed offside goal by Jesus, City headed into the halftime break with a comfortable 2–0 lead.
Second Half: A Dominant Display
The second half saw Manchester City shift into a higher gear. The introduction of Kevin De Bruyne in the 55th minute provided a catalyst for further goals. In the 61st minute, De Bruyne extended the lead to 3–0, skillfully taking the ball past Gomes to score from close range.
The rout continued in the 68th minute when Gabriel Jesus scored his second of the afternoon on a swift counter-attack. The final blow came from Raheem Sterling, who scored in the 81st minute and added a second in the 87th minute, sealing a comprehensive 6–0 victory.
Match Summary and Statistics
| Statistic | Manchester City | Watford |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 6 | 0 |
| Total Shots | 23 | 11 |
| Shots on Target | 12 | 2 |
| Possession | 66% | 34% |
| Corner Kicks | 13 | 1 |
| Yellow Cards | 1 | 2 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the domestic treble in English football?
The domestic treble consists of winning the Premier League, the FA Cup, and the League Cup (EFL Cup) in a single season. Manchester City became the first club to achieve this following their victory in the 2019 FA Cup Final.
Who was the man of the match in the 2019 FA Cup Final?
Kevin De Bruyne was named man of the match for his influential performance and goal.
How many goals did Raheem Sterling score?
Raheem Sterling scored two goals, finding the net in the 81st and 87th minutes of the match.
Was there any VAR controversy during the game?
Yes, in the 21st minute, a shot from Abdoulaye Doucouré struck Vincent Kompany's arm. After consulting the VAR, referee Kevin Friend decided not to award a penalty to Watford.
Which Watford player retired after this match?
Goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes announced his intention to retire at the end of the season, making this final his last professional football match.