Manchester City got back on track with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Brighton at the Etihad. It was a welcome win after consecutive losses in the League to Wolves and Arsenal for City. It was a big result for City who made it 21 consecutive wins at the Etihad to set another record.
Manchester City started on the front foot from kick-off as they looked to get at Brighton. Jeremy Doku looked lively from the outset and gave James Milner a torrid time in the first half. The Belgian winner set up City’s opener for Julian Alvarez as his run and cross was fired home by the Argentinian to give City a well-deserved lead.
The treble winners would double their lead 12 minutes through Erling Haaland. City’s number 9 seized on a mistake from Carlos Baleba to fire home to make it 2-nil. Pep Guardiola’s side deservedly went in 2-nil up at halftime after a dominant first-half display.
The second half was a different story as Brighton stepped up their game after a team talk from Roberto De Zerbi. Kaoru Mitoma gave Kyle Walker a tough time out wide and became the outlet for the Seagulls. He was denied by Stefan Ortega in the 69th minute after a swift Brighton counter.
Roberto De Zerbi’s side found a way back into the game in the 73rd minute. A well-worked move led to a scramble in City’s area. A failed Manuel Akanji clearance fell to Ansu Fati to fire home in the 73rd minute to make it 2-1.
The game was set up for a tense finale as Brighton pressed forward for an equaliser. Manual Akanji saw red for two yellow cards but City held firm for a vital three points. The game was a much-needed boost for the treble winners.
