Brighton & Hove Albion vs Manchester City

At the American Express Stadium, Brighton & Hove Albion produced one of the shocks of the early Premier League season by coming from behind to beat Manchester City 2–1. Pep Guardiola’s side looked to be in control when Erling Haaland, marking his 100th league appearance, struck in the first half to continue his remarkable scoring record, giving the visitors a deserved advantage heading into the break. City’s dominance, however, began to fade as the game wore on, allowing Brighton & Hove Albion to find a way back into the contest.

The turning point arrived in the second half when Brighton’s persistence finally paid off. Matheus Nunes was penalised for handling inside the box, and up stepped James Milner—at 39 years old—who showed no nerves as he coolly slotted home from the spot. The equaliser sparked life into the home crowd and energised Fabian Hürzeler’s team, who grew in confidence with every passing minute. Suddenly, City’s early control looked fragile, and their defensive lapses began to invite pressure.

With the game poised at 1–1, the tactical battle on the touchline became decisive. Hürzeler’s substitutions injected fresh energy, and none proved more crucial than the introduction of Brajan Gruda. The German U21 international was fearless, running at tired City legs and stretching their back line. Guardiola, meanwhile, struggled to find answers as his side lacked sharpness in midfield and were unable to kill off the game.

The dramatic finale came just before stoppage time. Gruda picked up the ball, slalomed past two defenders and rounded goalkeeper James Trafford before slotting home to complete Brighton’s comeback in the 89th minute. The stadium erupted as the Seagulls sealed a famous victory, while Manchester City players were left stunned by their inability to hold onto their lead. It was the kind of late twist that underlined the unpredictability and theatre of the Premier League.

For City, the defeat marks back-to-back league losses and exposes early-season cracks that Guardiola will need to address quickly. For Brighton, this was more than three points—it was a statement win, blending the wisdom of a veteran like Milner with the exuberance of a rising talent in Gruda. The Seagulls walked off the pitch knowing they had humbled the champions with resilience and courage, sending a clear message that they are ready to challenge anyone on their day.

Watch and Download Brighton & Hove Albion vs Manchester City full match replay and highlights, At Sunday, August 31, 2025. The match played at American Express Stadium, in Premier League,England.

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