Manchester City’s struggles in their pursuit of Champions League qualification continued as they were held to a frustrating draw against fellow top-five contenders Brighton at the Etihad Stadium.
Erling Haaland etched his name in Premier League history by becoming the fastest player to register 100 goal involvements, achieving the feat in just 94 matches. The Norwegian forward converted an 11th-minute penalty with confidence, sending Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen the wrong way to claim his 84th league goal.
Brighton respond with stunning strikes
Brighton quickly responded with a spectacular equalizer from Pervis Estupiñán. The full-back’s curling free-kick struck the post before finding the net, though City’s stand-in goalkeeper Stefan Ortega was left flat-footed after misjudging the ball’s trajectory.
After City regained the advantage following an own goal by Abdukodir Khusanov—who inadvertently redirected Jack Hinshelwood’s shot into the net—Brighton hit back once more. Omar Marmoush fired a brilliant 20-yard effort into the bottom corner, ensuring the visitors remained in the fight.
Late drama and Missed opportunities
As the game neared its conclusion, tensions flared on the City bench. Pep Guardiola grew increasingly frustrated with referee Simon Hooper’s decisions, particularly after challenges on Josko Gvardiol and Bernardo Silva, the latter forced off just 18 minutes after coming on.
City pushed for a winner, with Nico González striking the post, but it was Brighton who squandered the best late chance. Carlos Baleba found himself unmarked in front of goal but fired over the bar from Joao Pedro’s pinpoint cross, leaving both teams to settle for a hard-fought point.
Defensive concerns for Guardiola
Manchester City’s defensive issues were evident throughout the match, with lapses at the back proving costly once again. The absence of first-choice goalkeeper Ederson forced Guardiola to rely on Ortega, whose mistake for Brighton’s equalizer highlighted City’s vulnerabilities. Additionally, the own goal by Khusanov further exposed the instability in City’s backline, which has struggled in key moments this season.
Brighton’s resilience keeps them in the race
For Brighton, the result was another indication of their resilience and ability to compete with the league’s elite. Despite never having won an away game against Manchester City, Roberto De Zerbi’s side showed composure and attacking intent. Their willingness to take the game to the reigning champions and capitalize on defensive frailties will serve them well in their bid for a strong finish to the season.
