Bernardo Silva praises impact of Man City youngster as Pep Guardiola’s side confirm FA Cup semi-final spot

Bernardo Silva praised the impact of Nico O’Reilly after the youngster spearheaded Manchester City’s comeback win over Bournemouth.

Evanilson had given Andoni Iraola’s side the lead early in the first half after Kepa Arrizabalaga had saved Erling Haaland’s penalty, but Nico O’Reilly’s second half introduction changed the game for Pep Guardiola’s side, who went onto score twice to secure their FA Cup semi-final berth.

The only downside was Haaland needing to come off on the hour mark with a suspected ankle injury.

Speaking after the game, Silva believes City had the motivation to win the game and was full of praise for O’Reilly’s impact on the match.

“We had the motivation of that this is the only hope of winning something,” Silva said.  “The team played a really aggressive game. We are very happy today. 

“Nico O’Reilly was unbelievable. Against Plymouth, he showed the impact that he can have on the game. The energy that he brought completely changed the game for us, so it’s well deserved. That’s what we need in the team.

“It’s [Nottingham Forest] another tough draw for us. It’s the semi-finals and we will be playing at Wembley. We are very happy.”

O’Reilly, a second half substitute, put in a superb performance to get both assists for Haaland’s equaliser and fellow substitute Omar Marmoush’s winner.

The City academy graduate was delighted with the impact he was able to have off the bench.

“I just try my hardest every game,” O’Reilly said. “I’m trying to help the team out as much as I can, and I’m glad I’ve been able to do that so far. 

“The manager was just saying to run in behind. So I was just trying to do that. I’m happy with both assists.”

City now head to their seventh consecutive FA Cup semi-final appearance, and will face up against Champions League chasing Nottingham Forest.