Manchester City suffered a frustrating setback in their push for European qualification as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Brighton & Hove Albion at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, March 15, 2025. Despite leading twice in the match, Pep Guardiola’s men failed to secure maximum points, leaving them in fifth place with 48 points from 29 games.
Erling Haaland and Omar Marmoush found the net for City, but Brighton responded through a stunning free-kick from Pervis Estupiñán and an unfortunate own goal from City’s Abdukodir Khusanov. The result keeps Brighton just a point behind Manchester City in seventh, intensifying the battle for European spots as the season nears its climax
Haaland Reaches Historic Milestone with Early Goal
The match began with Manchester City in control, and they quickly asserted their dominance when Erling Haaland converted a penalty in the 11th minute. The Norwegian forward made no mistake from the spot after Marmoush was brought down inside the box by Adam Webster. This goal marked a significant milestone for Haaland, as he reached 100 goal contributions in the Premier League in just 94 matches—a record-breaking feat that surpasses the previous benchmark set by Alan Shearer, who achieved the same in 100 games.
Haaland’s goal sparked celebrations among Manchester City fans, with supporters hailing him as a “scoring sensation.” His relentless goal-scoring form has continued to set new records, placing him among the all-time greats in Premier League history. Manager Pep Guardiola, who has previously coached Lionel Messi, was full of praise for his No. 9, stating, “The numbers are unbelievable since he arrived. He has to help us more, and I want more from him.”
Brighton Fight Back with Stunning Equalizer
Despite Manchester City’s early lead, Brighton responded brilliantly in the 21st minute through Pervis Estupiñán. The Ecuadorian left-back stepped up to take a free-kick from just outside the box and curled a sensational strike past goalkeeper Stefan Ortega, who was left flat-footed as the ball crashed in off the post.
The equalizer gave Brighton renewed confidence as they continued to press forward and trouble City’s backline. Brighton showed resilience and composure, ensuring they remained competitive against the reigning champions. Manchester City, however, regained control of possession and pushed for another breakthrough before halftime.
Marmoush Restores Manchester City’s Lead Before Costly Own Goal
City reclaimed the lead in the 39th minute through Omar Marmoush, who produced a moment of brilliance from outside the penalty area. Ilkay Gündogan played a quick pass to the Egyptian forward, who unleashed a powerful strike that left Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen with no chance. The goal restored Manchester City’s advantage and put them in a strong position heading into the second half.
However, Brighton once again found a way back early in the second half. In the 49th minute, City’s defender Abdukodir Khusanov inadvertently deflected the ball into his own net while trying to clear an Adam Webster header from a corner. The unfortunate own goal leveled the match at 2-2, putting Manchester City under pressure to respond.
Missed Chances Cost Manchester City as Brighton Hold Firm
City pushed hard for a winner in the final stages, with Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, and Jack Grealish all coming close to restoring their lead. However, Brighton’s disciplined defense and goalkeeper Verbruggen’s crucial saves kept the hosts at bay. The Seagulls also had chances of their own, with Joël Veltman and Kaoru Mitoma testing Ortega late in the game.
The final whistle confirmed a disappointing result for Guardiola’s men, who now face an uphill battle to secure Champions League football next season. Brighton, meanwhile, continue to prove their quality , remaining in the mix for European qualification. With just nine games left in the season, every point will be crucial as both teams fight for a place in continental competition.
