New Delhi: Manchester City’s visit to the Amex ended in disappointment as Pep Guardiola’s men fell 2-1 to a resilient Brighton side. Despite taking the lead through Erling Haaland in the first half, City crumbled under pressure after the break, allowing João Pedro and Matt O’Riley to turn the game around and secure all three points for the hosts. It was City’s fourth consecutive defeat – a streak Guardiola had never experienced in his managerial career, adding to the sting of another blown opportunity.
For the first time in his career, Guardiola faces the bitter experience of four straight defeats. It’s an unexpected low for the experienced manager, especially given the team’s usual dominance in the Premier League. Each loss seems to add more pressure, raising questions about the squad’s resilience and depth amidst key absences.
City looked confident from the outset, controlling possession and creating chances. Haaland’s 23rd-minute goal appeared to signal another solid showing for the defending champions. Mateo Kovacic’s through ball sliced through Brighton’s defence, setting up Haaland to finish on the rebound after a fine save by Brighton keeper Bart Verbruggen.
FT: WHAT A COMEBACK FOR ALBION! 🤩🤩🤩
[2-1] 📲 #BHAMCI // #BHAFC 🔵⚪️ pic.twitter.com/hjIgZIjnaT
— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) November 9, 2024
City had chances to extend their lead, with Haaland hitting the post and Kovacic testing Verbruggen again, but the visitors couldn’t make their dominance count. Brighton, however, gained confidence as the game progressed. After halftime, Carlos Baleba’s entry in midfield gave Brighton a much-needed spark.
João Pedro’s equaliser in the 78th minute rattled City, and five minutes later, Pedro set up Matt O’Riley, who calmly slotted home his debut Premier League goal to complete the comeback. O’Riley’s story was particularly sweet; he had missed much of the season through injury but marked his return with a momentous goal.
As the final whistle approached, City pressed for an equaliser, with Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva entering the fray to add creativity and force. Yet Brighton’s defence held strong, supported by the vocal home crowd that celebrated every clearance and challenge. City’s late efforts came close, but they couldn’t beat Verbruggen, and the nine minutes of stoppage time were ultimately in vain.
City’s loss was compounded by six key injuries, including Jack Grealish and Ruben Dias, which left Guardiola relying on an untested backline. As the international break looms, Guardiola’s focus now turns to a crucial showdown with Tottenham, hoping to regain momentum before the title race slips further away
Manchester City’s fourth straight defeat leaves Guardiola reeling, as Brighton seal a stunning 2-1 win. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
