Brighton vs Manchester City Report

Scorers: Joao Pedro 78’, O’Riley 83’; Haaland 23’

Brighton 2-1 Manchester City: Seagulls Rally to Deepen City’s Woes

Manchester City’s struggles continued as Brighton & Hove Albion pulled off a stunning comeback to secure a 2-1 victory at the Amex Stadium, handing Pep Guardiola’s side a fourth consecutive defeat for the first time in his managerial tenure at the club.

The loss not only sees City slip further in the title race but also marks a rare Premier League H2H victory for Brighton over the reigning champions.

First Half: City Dominate, Haaland Strikes First

City started the game on the front foot, controlling possession and probing Brighton’s defence with sharp passes.

Mateo Kovačić was particularly influential, creating a string of chances, including a through-ball that saw Savinho force a low save from Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.

City’s persistence paid off midway through the first half, as Kovačić played Haaland in behind the defence. Though Verbruggen blocked Haaland’s initial attempt, the Norwegian followed up quickly to score, marking his fourth goal in as many matches against Brighton.

Haaland could have extended City’s lead before halftime, but Verbruggen again denied him, while another headed effort from a Phil Foden corner went over the bar.

Despite their dominance, City failed to kill off the game, allowing Brighton a glimmer of hope as they found their rhythm towards the end of the half, with Danny Welbeck’s promising chance blocked by Joško Gvardiol.

Second Half: Brighton Fight Back, Pedro and O’Riley Deliver the Knockout Punch

Brighton emerged from the break revitalised, with manager Fabian Hürzeler introducing Carlos Baleba to help steady the midfield.

The hosts looked more competitive and began to create real opportunities, with Pervis Estupiñán delivering dangerous crosses that nearly paid dividends. Jack Hinshelwood’s header from one such cross tested Ederson, while Georginio Rutter’s effort missed the mark.

Sensing the tide turning, Guardiola brought on Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne, but City struggled to regain their first-half intensity.

Brighton eventually capitalised on their momentum in the 78th minute, as João Pedro pounced on a loose ball during a goalmouth scramble, drilling home the equaliser from close range.

Brighton’s belief surged, and five minutes later, a slick team move resulted in Pedro slotting a precise pass to Matt O’Riley, who coolly finished to mark his Premier League debut with a goal, sealing an extraordinary comeback for Brighton and lifting them into the league’s top four.

Conclusion: Pressure Mounts on City, Brighton Ride High

The defeat deepens City’s troubles, with Guardiola facing unprecedented scrutiny as his team potentially falls five points behind leaders Liverpool.

For Brighton, however, this result marks a high point in an impressive season thus far, as they continue their unbeaten run at home and cement themselves as genuine European contenders.

For more info on this game’s outcome, you may also visit:
Brighton v Man City, 2024/25 | Premier League