-Deborah Akinyosoye
Manchester City suffer defeat Saturday night with Brighton pulling off a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory to topple the reigning champions.
Despite a powerful start and an early lead from Erling Haaland, Pep Guardiola’s side faltered as Brighton’s spirited performance in the second half turned the tide.
NigeriaTodayTimes reports that the game began with Manchester City in control, with Haaland breaking through to open the scoring in the 26th minute, setting the tone for what many expected to be another City triumph.
But Brighton had other plans.
Showing resilience and tactical agility, Brighton’s manager turned to his bench in the second half, a move that paid dividends almost instantly.
Brighton substitutes Joao Pedro and Matt O’Riley were the heroes of the night, both scoring within five electrifying minutes.
Pedro’s composed finish levelled the game, igniting the home crowd.
Moments later, O’Riley’s clinical strike in the 79th minute sent Brighton fans into raptures, sealing a victory and leaving Manchester City grappling with back-to-back setbacks.
Guardiola fell to a fourth successive defeat for the first time in his managerial career as Brighton came from behind to beat his Manchester City side.
It is the first time since 2006 that City have lost four in a row, BBC reports.