Premier League 2025, Round 3 | American Express Stadium | 31 August 2025
Brighton Stun Manchester City With 2–1 Comeback Victory
Brighton & Hove Albion shocked Manchester City with a dramatic 2–1 win in the Premier League at the Amex Stadium. Erling Haaland opened the scoring for City in the first half, but James Milner’s penalty and Brajan Gruda’s late strike turned the game around.
This Brighton vs Manchester City result is one of the biggest early-season surprises, handing Pep Guardiola’s side their first loss of the 2025/26 campaign.
Brighton vs Man City Highlights
- ⚽ 34’ – Goal: Erling Haaland (0–1)
The Norwegian striker powered home after breaking Brighton’s defensive line. - ⚽ 67’ – Goal: James Milner (1–1, Pen.)
The veteran midfielder kept his composure from the spot after Khusanov’s foul. - ⚽ 89’ – Goal: Brajan Gruda (2–1)
Mitoma’s driving run created space for Gruda, who slotted home the winner.
Match Statistics: Brighton vs Manchester City
- Possession: Brighton 37% – 63% Man City
- Expected Goals (xG): Brighton 2.29 – 1.84 Man City
- Shots: Brighton 13 – 12 Man City
- Tackles Won: Brighton 17 (76%) – 14 (50%) Man City
- Pass Accuracy: Brighton 231/311 (74%) – 486/556 (87%) Man City
🔑 Key stat: Brighton created three big chances in the second half alone, highlighting their attacking efficiency despite limited possession.
Tactical Analysis: How Brighton Beat Manchester City
- Manchester City: Dominated the ball with 63% possession and controlled territory in the first half. However, they lacked penetration after Brighton tightened defensively. Most of City’s play relied on Haaland’s movement, with limited creativity from midfield.
- Brighton: Fabian Hurzeler’s side showed resilience, shifting tactics in the second half by pressing higher and exploiting wide areas. Substitutions (Ayari, Rutter, Gruda) added energy, while Mitoma’s direct running unsettled City’s backline.
Player Ratings and Standout Performances
- ⭐ Brajan Gruda (Brighton, 8.5/10) – Match-winner with an ice-cool finish in the 89th minute.
- ⭐ James Milner (Brighton, 8/10) – Converted the equalizer and anchored midfield at age 39.
- ⭐ Erling Haaland (Man City, 7/10) – Took his goal clinically but faded after halftime.
- Brighton Defence (Van Hecke, Veltman, Dunk) – Key interceptions and aerial dominance kept City at bay late on.
