Manchester City faced a surprising 2-1 defeat against Brighton at Amex Stadium, marking a rare consecutive loss under Pep Guardiola. The visitors were determined to avoid back-to-back Premier League losses and started the match aggressively. Despite their early dominance, clear-cut chances were scarce. Man City scored a joint-league-high nine goals in the opening 15 minutes of their games this season, but this time, they struggled to find the net.
Savinho, the first to threaten, forcing a smart low save from Bart Verbruggen after being set up by Mateo Kovačić. The Croatian international Dismantled Brighton’s defense effortlessly, and when he set up Erling Haaland midway through the first half, the striker capitalized. Although Verbruggen saved Haaland’s initial shot, the Norwegian quickly reacted to score his fourth goal in as many head-to-heads.
Haaland had opportunities to complete a hat-trick before halftime but was denied by Verbruggen and missed a header from a Phil Foden corner. Brighton was under pressure and struggled to advance out of their half but took advantage of a lapse in City’s control just before the break. Kaoru Mitoma’s surge down the left and pass to the in-form Danny Welbeck created a promising chance, but Joško Gvardiol blocked Welbeck’s effort.
After the restart, Brighton continued their momentum, with Carlos Baleba coming on to strengthen their midfield. The match became more balanced, and Brighton was disappointed not to equalize when Pervis Estupiñán’s precise cross found Jack Hinshelwood, whose header was saved by Ederson. Estupiñán delivered another dangerous cross soon after, which Georginio Rutter headed over, while Savinho missed a curling shot at the other end as both teams pushed forward.
Brighton dominated the second half but struggled to convert their chances. Substitute João Pedro missed a shot wide. By the time Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne were introduced after the 70-minute mark, Manchester City had not registered a shot on target in the second half. Brighton’s persistence paid off when Pedro scored from close range after a scramble in the six-yard box.
City’s collapse was complete just five minutes later when a slick Brighton move ended with Pedro setting up Matt O’Riley, who scored on his Premier League debut, sealing a famous win for Brighton. This victory moved Brighton into the top four, having gone six matches unbeaten at home in their league campaign.
For Manchester City, the result was disastrous. They could find themselves five points behind early leaders Liverpool by the end of the weekend. This defeat highlights the challenges City faces in maintaining their dominance in the Premier League.