Manchester City, for the first time under Pep Guardiola, have faced four consecutive defeats as Brighton & Hove Albion pulled off an exciting comeback to snag a 2-1 win at the Amex Stadium. This marks only their second-ever Premier League victory over City in their matchups.
City kicked things off with their usual intensity, trying to avoid back-to-back Premier League losses under Guardiola for just the fourth time. They’ve been on fire in the early minutes this season, scoring a league-high nine goals in the first 15 minutes of matches, and that ambition was clear as they dominated possession. Mateo Kovačić was key in City’s early attacks, threading the ball to Savinho, whose low shot forced a great save from Bart Verbruggen. Kovačić kept breaking down the Brighton defense, setting up Erling Haaland midway through the first half. Although Verbruggen stopped Haaland’s first attempt, the Norwegian quickly converted the rebound, netting his fourth goal in as many games against the Seagulls.
The visitors looked ready to extend their lead, with Haaland almost scoring a hat-trick before half-time, only to be denied twice by Verbruggen and missing another chance from a Phil Foden corner. But Brighton started to find their rhythm, sparked by a late first-half push as Kaoru Mitoma’s left-side break set up Danny Welbeck, whose shot was blocked by Joško Gvardiol.
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After the break, Brighton took charge. Carlos Baleba’s entry strengthened their midfield as they hunted for an equalizer. The Seagulls had some close calls, including a Jack Hinshelwood header that Ederson saved and another missed chance from Georginio Rutter. Savinho’s curled shot hinted at City’s lingering threat, but Brighton kept pressing, with substitute João Pedro firing just wide.
As City’s defense started to crack, Brighton found their moment. Pedro slotted home after a messy goalmouth scramble, leveling the score. Just minutes later, the comeback was complete as Pedro set up Matt O’Riley, who coolly scored on his Premier League debut, sealing Brighton’s famous victory.
Brighton’s stunning win lifts them into the top four, having gone six games unbeaten at home. For City, though, it’s a tough result, leaving them potentially five points behind Liverpool, who are leading the early title race.
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