In a thrilling match at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City faced off against Brighton & Hove Albion on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. The match, which was eagerly anticipated, saw City looking to regain their winning form after a series of draws and losses. However, Brighton had other plans, pulling off a stunning comeback victory that left City fans in disbelief.
The match began with both teams showing their intent to dominate the game. However, it was Erling Haaland who broke the deadlock in the 41st minute, putting Manchester City in the lead. Haaland's goal was a testament to his lethal finishing, which has been a hallmark of his performances this season. The Norwegian striker has been a key player for City, as he is the leading scorer in the Premier League.
Despite City's early advantage, Brighton did not give up. They continued to press forward, creating several scoring opportunities that kept the City defense on their toes. The turning point of the match came in the 89th minute when Brighton substituted four players, including Brajan Gruda, who scored the equalizer just a minute later. This substitution proved to be a masterstroke by Brighton's coach, Fabian Hurzeler.
In a dramatic twist, Brighton scored the winning goal in the 90th minute, securing a 2-1 victory over Manchester City. The goal, scored by Gruda, was the culmination of a well-executed comeback by the Brighton team, who showed incredible resilience and determination. This victory is a significant achievement for Brighton, who have been fighting hard to climb up the Premier League table.
The match was a testament to the unpredictable nature of Premier League football, where any team can challenge the top sides. Despite being favorites, City could not hold onto their lead, and Brighton's comeback was a joy to watch for football fans. Fabian Hurzeler's tactical substitutions and the team’s fighting spirit were instrumental in securing the victory.
As the final whistle blew, the Etihad Stadium was left in stunned silence. City, who had been hoping to secure a much-needed win, were left to reflect on a missed opportunity. The loss will undoubtedly be a setback for Pep Guardiola's side, who will now have to regroup and focus on upcoming matches. For Brighton, this victory will be a massive confidence booster as they continue their Premier League journey.
Overall, the match was a thrilling encounter that showcased the best of Premier League football. Both teams showcased their attacking prowess and defensive resilience, making it a memorable game for fans. With the season still in full swing, both teams will be looking to build on their performances and strive for better results in the coming weeks.
