Match Report: Manchester City 3-1 Brighton (Premier League)

Manchester City got back to winning ways after a disappointing defeat at Anfield last time out, with a 3-1 victory over an in-form Brighton and Hove Albion.

It was a dominant first half from the Blues, and their controlled efforts were rewarded early on when Ederson found Erling Haaland with a superb long-distance pass.

The Norwegian international bullied his way through the Brighton defence to slot home the opener within 25 minutes.

Much to the chagrin of the visitors, the Manchester City lead was doubled on the brink of half-time.

Bernardo Silva was taken down in the penalty box, forcing the referee to award the hosts a spot-kick after a VAR review.

The subsequent spot-kick was coolly dispatched by Erling Haaland for his second goal on the day, and his 17th in the league in the current campaign.

Erling Haaland has now scored 17 #PL goals in 11 #ManCity appearances. Only three players scored more Premier League goals during the entire 2021/22 season. 🤯😂 @WilliamHill

— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) October 22, 2022

While Pep Guardiola’s side looked to be cruising to victory, the Seagulls took the air out of the Etihad Stadium.

Brighton talisman Leandro Trossard scored a tremendous goal from the edge of the Manchester City box to cut the deficit in half.

While the away side poured on the pressure in the minutes after their goal, the stubborn Manchester City defence remained solid to reclaim control.

As a result of regaining a foothold, City found their way back to a two-goal advantage thanks to a Kevin De Bruyne wonder-strike from outside of the box, driving the final nail in the Brighton coffin on the day.

👁️😅 @KevinDeBruyne pic.twitter.com/InrytPWAFP

— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) October 22, 2022

The De Bruyne goal signalled a host of changes from the Manchester City boss, as Julian Alvarez and Cole Palmer saw out the final minutes for the Blues.

Pep Guardiola’s men will be more than pleased to get back on track after the deflating defeat at the hands of rivals Liverpool last weekend.

A fourth win in five games sees the Blues close the gap on league leaders Arsenal, who will face off with Southampton on Sunday.

Next up for the Etihad outfit is a trip to Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League.

With a win in Germany, the Premier League champions would secure top-spot in Group G, as they chase a first ever European triumph.

Player Ratings: #ManCity 3-1 Brighton, By: @hamishmacrae16

— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) October 22, 2022