Erling Haaland ended his goal drought in spectacular fashion as the Premier League champions returned to their winning form with a 2-1 victory over Brighton.
Haaland, often likening himself to a “zombie” on the field, demonstrated his resilience. Brighton learned this the hard way as he found the net from outside the area, doubling Manchester City’s lead. This remarkable strike came after Haaland had gone three games without scoring and had taken just one shot in his last two Premier League matches.
City had taken an early lead through a Julian Alvarez one-touch finish, set up by a breathtaking run from Jeremy Doku, who continually troubled Brighton whenever he had the ball. In the latter stages of the game, Brighton rallied, with Ansu Fati reducing the deficit and Kaoru Mitoma putting pressure on City, especially with Kyle Walker.
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Pep Guardiola’s side faced a tense moment when Manuel Akanji received a second booking, but with only two minutes of added time left, City held on. This victory propelled them back to the top of the Premier League table, at least momentarily, ensuring they got their campaign back on track.
Goalkeeper & Defence
Stefan Ortega (6/10):
Such a surprise choice that he was not even on the initial team sheet. Had little to do but stayed aware and thwarted Mitoma with clever footwork. Before then, his kicking was a little suspect.
Kyle Walker (5/10):
Struggled against Mitoma for most of the afternoon, particularly in the build-up to Brighton’s goal. Couldn’t get forward.
John Stones (7/10):
Made his first start of the season and looked as assured as at his peak. Helped City boss the midfield for most of the game.
Manuel Akanji (4/10):
Struggled to get a grip on Brighton’s counter and his sloppy clearance was gobbled up by Fati for the visitors’ goal. Things got worse when he was sent off in added-time, meaning he will miss next week’s derby at Manchester United.
Josko Gvardiol (6/10):
Getting more accustomed to City’s play with each week.
Midfield
Phil Foden (6/10):
Had a nice understanding going with Doku on the other flank. Dictated the play but not as influential as usual.
Bernardo Silva (6/10):
A crucial cog in City’s passing machine.
Rodri (7/10):
Restored control and order to the midfield after three games out, all of which City lost. Is it any coincidence they won on his first game back?
Jeremy Doku (8/10):
In an electric mood and every time he got the ball, the crowd took notice and Brighton shuddered. Set up the opener and could have scored twice himself.
Attack
Julian Alvarez (6/10):
A classy one-touch finish to put City in front. Dropped deep a lot to try and create more. Should have done better when presented with an open goal, albeit 40 yards out.
Erling Haaland (7/10):
A crashing, no nonsense goal to end his three-game drought. Picked up the loose ball and only had one thing on his mind.
Subs & Manager
Jack Grealish (6/10):
Gave City some tactical discipline and some fight when he came on.
Ruben Dias (6/10):
Made a rare appearance on the bench, immediately brought on to tighten things up after City conceded.
Nathan Ake (N/A):
Came on in added time.
Pep Guardiola (6/10):
After talking up De Zerbi’s qualities before the game, it was Guardiola’s side who dominated most of the proceedings. However, he will be disappointed with how his side lost their grip on the game late on.