The positive news from AMEX Stadium shortly before the match added extra motivation for coach Arne Slot and his team. Recently, the title race between Man City and Liverpool has started to gain momentum, showing early signs of separation—an encouraging signal for “The Kop.”

At AMEX Stadium, Pep Guardiola fielded a strong starting lineup, and “The Citizens” were expected to dominate. Erling Haaland opened the scoring in the 23rd minute, marking a milestone as the fastest player to reach 75 goals in English football, achieving this in just 77 games.

Had Haaland doubled the lead three minutes later, the outcome might have been very different for Man City.

Despite controlling much of the match and creating numerous chances, City failed to capitalize, eventually paying the price when Brighton made a comeback late in the game.

Brighton substitute Joao Pedro capitalized on a scramble in front of City’s goal, scoring the equalizer in the 78th minute. Just five minutes later, the stadium erupted as Matt O’Riley received a pass from Pedro and broke through to beat Ederson, giving Brighton the lead.

This victory marked Brighton’s first win over City after 14 previous attempts, ending in draws or losses. Man City, on the other hand, faced their fourth consecutive defeat across all competitions—a previously unheard-of streak under Pep Guardiola—leaving them stranded in second place, missing their chance to overtake Liverpool as they had hoped before the match.