Man City defeated Brighton 2-1 at the Etihad, with Jeremy Doku in charge of the champions’ offense. Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez gave Man City their first victory since November.
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The returning James Milner was so thoroughly tormented by the young Belgian that the 37-year-old was brought off at halftime, but much of the damage had already been done when his pull-back was knocked in by Alavarez for the game’s first goal after eight minutes.
Following a defensive blunder by Carlos Baleba, Haaland’s strong finish prevented Brighton from going under.
Ansu Fati, a substitute, scored on a loose ball from Kaoru Mitoma’s cross to give the Seagulls hope after Pascal Gross had wasted a fantastic opportunity to put them back in the game.
Hope was all that was left as Guardiola’s team comfortably held on despite Manuel Akanji receiving a second card for dragging back Fati in injury time.
The Seagulls’ difficult afternoon was made even worse by Solly March’s injury in extra time, who was taken away on a stretcher after receiving treatment for a while.
What’s next?
Wednesday’s Champions League match between Manchester City and Young Boys will take place in Switzerland; kickoff is at 8 p.m.
The Super Sunday matchup between Manchester United and Pep Guardiola’s team will take place at Old Trafford and will be shown live on Sky Sports at 3.30 p.m. on October 29.
