Ayari’s strike sinks Man City as Brighton claim Etihad revenge

By Tosin Omojola

Brighton secured swift revenge for their midweek Carabao Cup exit by stunning Manchester City and condemning Pep Guardiola’s side to consecutive Premier League defeats.

Fabian Hurzeler’s men had twice taken the lead at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday before losing on penalties. However, they returned to the venue on Saturday to claim an impressive victory that moved them to within two points of third-placed City.

Brighton took the lead after just 11 minutes, thanks to a costly mistake by City’s right-back, Matheus Nunes. His miscued clearance fell perfectly for Yasin Ayari, who made no mistake from close range.

City almost restored parity 10 minutes later when Iliman Ndiaye rose to meet Elliot Anderson’s cross but directed his header narrowly wide. The Senegal international threatened again shortly afterwards, forcing Bart Verbruggen into a fine save at his near post.

Ndiaye remained City’s brightest attacking outlet after the break, racing clear before unleashing a powerful effort that Verbruggen brilliantly tipped onto the crossbar.

The Brighton goalkeeper continued to frustrate the hosts, producing another excellent save to deny Nunes, while Erling Haaland’s weak header proved relatively comfortable to handle.

Haaland struggled to make an impact as City found it difficult to provide their leading striker with meaningful service. At the other end, Brighton had opportunities to extend their advantage, but Maxim de Cuyper first blazed over from 10 yards before forcing Gianluigi Donnarumma into a sharp save with a header.

However, Brighton’s missed chances proved inconsequential as they held on to secure all three points, further underlining their impressive start to the Premier League season.