Brighton stun Manchester City as Maresca suffers second consecutive PL defeat

Brighton & Hove Albion claimed an impressive 1-0 victory over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, condemning Enzo Maresca’s side to consecutive Premier League defeats.

Yasin Ayari scored the decisive goal in the 11th minute after Matheus Nunes failed to clear Maxim De Cuyper’s cross properly, allowing the Brighton midfielder to finish from close range.

According to BBC Sport, City struggled to convert their opportunities despite registering 19 shots, with Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen producing several outstanding saves.

Iliman Ndiaye came closest to rescuing a point for the hosts, striking the crossbar after Verbruggen made an excellent intervention. Erling Haaland also endured a frustrating afternoon, receiving limited service throughout the encounter.

Brighton, meanwhile, threatened to extend their advantage but failed to capitalise on further opportunities. The victory moves Fabian Hurzeler’s side to within two points of third-placed City, completing a remarkable response after their midweek Carabao Cup elimination against the same opponents.

For Maresca, who won his opening seven league matches, the defeat represents his first significant setback since taking charge, with City now needing an immediate response.