Brighton defeated Manchester City 1-0 on Saturday to close within two points of the Premier League leaders.
Yasin Ayari scored the only goal in the 11th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error to put Brighton ahead. Fabian Hurzeler’s side held firm despite a second-half onslaught from City, with goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen making crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet. Brighton could have extended their lead late on, but Jack Hinshelwood’s effort hit the side-netting.
The victory marked Brighton’s first-ever away win against City in 18 attempts and avenged their penalty shootout defeat to the same opponents in the League Cup on Wednesday. Hurzeler had felt aggrieved after that match, where his team twice led at the Etihad Stadium before losing on penalties.
City, who had won their opening seven league games under new manager Enzo Maresca, suffered a second consecutive league defeat. The loss leaves them vulnerable at the top, with Arsenal able to overtake them if they avoid defeat at Liverpool on Sunday. Brighton, now third in the table, have the league’s best goal difference at 24:7 and have already beaten reigning champions Arsenal this season.
City’s off-field concerns remain, as they await the outcome of an appeal against a guilty verdict on over 100 charges of breaking Premier League financial rules. If upheld, they could face a severe points penalty or even relegation.
