Pep Guardiola suffered a rare and historic setback as his Manchester City side were beaten 2-1 by Brighton at the Amex Stadium. This defeat marked Guardiola’s fourth consecutive loss, the first such streak in his illustrious managerial career, and the first time City have lost four in a row since 2006.
The Premier League champions initially looked on course for a victory when Erling Haaland put them ahead in the 23rd minute, scoring after his initial shot was saved by goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. But they refused to be intimidated and staged a dramatic second-half comeback, taking control of the game and ultimately securing all three points with two late goals.
Substitute Joao Pedro equalized in the 78th minute, before Matt O’Riley, returning from injury, netted the winner just five minutes later. Brighton’s resilience and relentless attacking play exposed Manchester City’s defensive vulnerabilities, and despite creating some early chances, the visitors were unable to weather the storm.
Early City Supremacy Fades as Brighton Fight Back
City took the lead in the first half with Haaland’s close-range finish from Mateo Kovacic’s pass. The goal came during a period of dominance for City, who looked to break their recent slump. However, their hopes of stabilizing their form were quickly undermined by a lack of composure at the back. Brighton grew into the game and were soon threatening in attack.
Without the steadying influence of midfielder Rodri, who was absent due to injury, City’s defense struggled under Brighton’s pressing game. Ruben Dias and John Stones’ absence from the starting lineup left the defense exposed, and Brighton pounced on every mistake.
The Seagulls had a number of chances to equalize before they finally did so in the 78th minute. A scramble in the box saw Joao Pedro react quickest, turning in a rebound after City failed to clear their lines. The goal came after Brighton had already seen several good chances go begging, with Jack Hinshelwood and Georginio Rutter both failing to convert presentable opportunities.
Brighton’s pressure was relentless, and just five minutes later, Matt O’Riley made the most of a defensive breakdown to run through the City backline and score the winner. The goal capped off a thrilling period of sustained attacking play, with Brighton’s confidence growing by the minute.
Man City’s Defensive Woes Exposed
Despite City’s early lead, their defense began to crack as Brighton upped the tempo in the second half. The absence of Rodri in midfield was keenly felt, as the City midfield lacked control and the defensive pairing of Dias and Stones failed to offer their usual solidity. Brighton took full advantage, with winger Kaoru Mitoma causing constant problems for City right-back Kyle Walker.
Manchester City’s defense, once a bastion of stability under Guardiola, now looked increasingly vulnerable. Brighton’s pressing game, led by manager Fabian Hurzeler, capitalized on City’s mistakes, and the Seagulls could have been out of sight if not for some crucial saves from City goalkeeper Ederson. The Brazilian shot-stopper kept City in the game with some important interventions, but his efforts were ultimately in vain as Brighton’s pressure paid off.
This loss to Brighton will be a major blow for Guardiola and his squad, who now find themselves in a difficult patch of form. City have struggled to find their rhythm without some of their key players, and this defeat leaves them with much to address in the upcoming international break.
Hurzeler’s Fearless Approach Earns them a Huge Victory
Brighton’s young manager, Fabian Hurzeler, masterminded a memorable win over one of the Premier League’s most dominant sides. Hurzeler, 31, has quickly made a name for himself since taking charge, building on the solid foundations laid by his predecessors, Graham Potter and Roberto De Zerbi. His approach was clear from the outset—Brighton were not here to play for a draw but to take the game to Manchester City.
After a tentative first half, they grew in confidence and dominated possession after the break. Hurzeler’s attacking setup allowed them to constantly put pressure on City, forcing mistakes and creating chances. Kaoru Mitoma’s dazzling runs down the left caused havoc for City’s defense, and Joao Pedro’s opportunistic goal showed the clinical finishing.
This victory is undoubtedly the highlight of Hurzeler’s brief tenure, following a series of strong performances that have already seen Brighton defeat Manchester United and Tottenham at home this season. The win over City, however, was by far their most impressive, and it reinforces Brighton’s growing reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League.
The Amex Stadium is proving to be a fortress under Hurzeler, and Brighton’s attacking style is delighting fans. The victory over City not only boosts their league position but also sets the tone for the rest of the season, as they aim to challenge the established top clubs in the league.
With their attacking flair and belief in their ability to upset the big teams, Brighton are looking more and more like one of the Premier League’s most exciting sides under Hurzeler’s leadership.
source – BBC
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