Manchester City’s disastrous run of form continued in Brighton as they suffered a humiliating 2-1 defeat, marking their fourth consecutive loss.
Also Read: EPL Match Report! Brighton vs Manchester City Match Updates, News and Scores (9th November, 2024)
Erling Haaland’s first-half strike put them ahead, but Pep Guardiola’s side collapsed in the second half as Brighton mounted a relentless attack, ultimately overturning the deficit.
The match had started well for City, with Haaland compensating for his wasteful performance in Lisbon by giving them the lead. However, Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler orchestrated a tactical masterclass in the second half, leaving City exposed.
Brighton created several chances, though their finishing was poor, before Joao Pedro equalised in the 78th minute. Just five minutes later, debutant Matt O’Riley sealed the win for Brighton, leaving Guardiola’s City in crisis.
Goalkeeper & Defence:
Ederson (6/10): Made a decent save from Jack Hinshelwood but had little chance with either goal.
Kyle Walker (4/10): Struggled defensively, especially against Mitoma, and failed to impact the game.
Jahmai Simpson-Pusey (5/10): Had some solid interceptions but was overpowered by Welbeck and struggled to cope with Brighton’s pressure.
Josko Gvardiol (5/10): A solid first half was followed by a disastrous second, with Gvardiol failing to stop Brighton’s attacks.
Midfield:
Ilkay Gundogan (6/10): Played more confidently than in recent weeks, but his departure coincided with Brighton’s comeback.
Mateo Kovacic (7/10): Excellent in the first half, especially in the build-up to Haaland’s goal, but faded in the second.
Rico Lewis (5/10): Overpowered in both goals, failing to assert his usual dominance in midfield.
Matheus Nunes (6/10): Showed flashes of quality but struggled defensively and couldn’t help stop Brighton’s onslaught.
Attack:
Phil Foden (5/10): Lacked the necessary cutting edge and was ineffective.
Erling Haaland (8/10): Was City’s standout performer, scoring the opener and bullying defenders, but couldn’t prevent the late collapse.
Savinho (6/10): Showed glimpses of skill but failed to make an impact with his finishing.
Subs & Manager:
Bernardo Silva (5/10): Couldn’t cope with Brighton’s relentless attacks after coming on.
Kevin De Bruyne (5/10): Looked sluggish and struggled to impose himself, though he almost scored late.
Pep Guardiola (4/10): Completely outfoxed by Hurzeler’s tactics. His substitutions were ineffective, and City’s defensive fragility was evident.
This loss marks a new low for Pep Guardiola’s City as they face serious questions over their form and tactics. With a tough international break ahead, Guardiola has plenty to ponder about his team’s collapse.
