Brighton caused Josep Guardiola the first four losses in a row in his managerial career, Matt O’Riley decided the game.
In a pulsating encounter at the Amex Stadium, Manchester City narrowly defeated Brighton & Hove Albion 2-1, with the final whistle blown after 11 minutes of added time. The contest began with City asserting their usual control, and it didn’t take long for Erling Haaland to leave his mark. In the 23rd minute, Haaland latched onto a ball inside the box and, with clinical precision, sent a deflected shot past Brighton’s keeper, Bart Verbruggen, to put City ahead.
Brighton, however, showcased their fighting spirit. Despite City’s dominance in possession, with the visitors holding the ball for 68% of the time during the first half, the Seagulls managed to craft a few promising moments. Jack Hinshelwood’s header in the 52nd minute nearly brought the home side level, only for Ederson to produce a fantastic save that kept City’s lead intact. Unfortunately for Brighton, Hinshelwood had to be substituted due to injury just minutes later, with Matt O’Riley stepping in.
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The second half saw a shift in momentum. Brighton’s persistence paid off in the 78th minute when Joao Pedro capitalized on a rebound inside the box, rifling the ball into the left side of the net to equalize. The home crowd erupted in celebration, sensing a potential comeback against the reigning champions. But just as Brighton were gaining confidence, City struck back swiftly.
Only five minutes after Brighton’s equalizer, O’Riley, who had made an impact from his arrival, found space in the City box and slotted a low shot past Ederson to regain the lead for the Seagulls. The intensity ramped up, with both teams exchanging attacks. Josko Gvardiol’s header narrowly missed the post for City in the dying minutes, adding to the drama.
As the game entered added time, tensions flared. Haaland received a yellow card for an aggressive play, and Kevin De Bruyne’s efforts to find an equalizer for City were met with a solid Brighton defense. Despite late pushes from the visitors, including a close effort from Phil Foden, Brighton held their ground.
The final whistle from referee Samuel Barrott confirmed Brighton’s hard-fought victory, leaving Pep Guardiola’s side to rue missed opportunities. This result adds a vital three points to Brighton’s tally, showcasing their resilience against top-tier opposition, while City will look to regroup and refocus as they continue their campaign.
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