Brighton Claim First Premier League Win with 2-1 Victory Over Man City | OneFootball

Brighton Defeat Manchester City 2-1 in Premier League Thriller

Brighton produced a remarkable late turnaround to defeat Manchester City 2-1 at the Amex Stadium, securing their first victory of the Premier League season. The Seagulls struck in the final minute to condemn the champions to back-to-back defeats and ignite their own campaign in dramatic fashion.

Gruda Delivers Late Winner

Substitute Brajan Gruda was the match-winner, showing composure to beat James Trafford in the dying moments. His decisive strike capped a strong second-half performance from Brighton, who had battled back from behind and kept pressing until the very end.

The German youngster’s introduction gave Fabian Hürzeler’s side fresh energy, and when the opportunity arrived, he took it with calm authority. The goal not only sealed the result but also highlighted the growing depth and character within Brighton’s squad.

Haaland’s Milestone Overshadowed

Manchester City began with confidence, taking the lead through Erling Haaland, who marked his 100th Premier League appearance with yet another goal. It looked set to be a straightforward evening for Pep Guardiola’s team after they controlled much of the opening half.

However, City’s dominance waned after the break. Their defensive shape was tested repeatedly as Brighton built momentum, forcing mistakes and unsettling a usually composed side. The defeat adds further concern after the loss to Tottenham the previous weekend, leaving the champions with just three points from their first three matches.

Milner Sparks the Comeback

Brighton’s equaliser arrived through the experienced James Milner, who converted from the penalty spot against his former club. The veteran midfielder, at 39 years old, demonstrated once again why he remains such an influential presence in the Premier League.

It was his first goal for Brighton and his first league strike in almost five years, adding a personal milestone to a hugely significant moment for his team. His coolness under pressure shifted the momentum of the contest and gave Brighton the belief that a famous win was possible.

Brighton’s Statement Performance

The second half was all about resilience and ambition. Brighton pressed City relentlessly, moving the ball quickly and exploiting gaps in defence. Their reward came when Gruda struck late, sparking celebrations across the Amex Stadium and delivering a victory that will be remembered by their supporters.

For Manchester City, consecutive defeats raise questions about their early-season sharpness. While Guardiola will demand a response, the result demonstrates that opponents are willing to take risks and expose vulnerabilities in a side that has set the standard for so long.

Brighton, meanwhile, climb to four points from their opening three fixtures. More importantly, they showed the determination to fight back and defeat one of the strongest teams in the division. It was a night that underlined the potential of Hürzeler’s men and gave the Premier League another reminder of Brighton’s growing stature.