Brighton & Hove Albion shocked Manchester City with a thrilling 2-1 win at the Amex Stadium, as German midfielder Brajan Gruda struck a last-minute winner to seal the club’s first Premier League victory of the season.
Erling Haaland had put Manchester City ahead in the 34th minute, finding space between defenders to score his third goal of the campaign. However, the momentum shifted in the second half when Matheus Nunes conceded a penalty after handling inside the box. Veteran James Milner calmly converted from the spot in the 67th minute, becoming the oldest player to score a Premier League penalty at 39 years and 239 days.
With the score tied, Brighton pressed harder, and in the 89th minute, Brajan Gruda beat the offside trap, rounded goalkeeper James Trafford, and slotted home the winner, sparking wild celebrations in the stands.
The defeat leaves Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City sitting 12th in the Premier League with only three points from their first three matches, while Brighton climbs to 10th with four points.
After the match, City midfielder Rodri admitted the team is “not at the level for a long time” and pointed to the squad changes as a factor behind their slow start. Meanwhile, James Milner, wearing the No.20 shirt in tribute to his late former Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota, celebrated his emotional goal by mimicking Jota’s iconic celebration.
The victory marks back-to-back 2-1 home wins for Brighton against Manchester City, with fans chanting “Can we play you every week?” in delight.