City Rocked by Brighton's Intensity

They lose again despite Haaland's 3rd goal; West Ham finally earn 1st win after bad start

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LONDON - Manchester City blew the lead in a shock 2-1 Premier League defeat at Brighton & Hove Albion on Aug 31 that extended their troubled start to the season.

City striker Erling Haaland marked his 100th Premier League appearance with his 88th goal in the competition since joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2022.

But the 25-year-old's third goal this season was not enough to help Pep Guardiola's side bounce back from last weekend's 2-0 home defeat against Tottenham Hotspur.

James Milner's second-half penalty hauled Brighton level before Brajan Gruda's late strike completed City's collapse.

"Football isn't always about tactics. It's sometimes about the energy and the togetherness you have," said Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler. "We showed in the second half we had this intensity and this energy, and with this you can win your games."

On Milner, he added: "He spreads belief. That spreads to the others. There was pressure with the penalty, but he has dealt with pressure in his past and has got highlights in his career.

"He has proved today he can help us. Wins always change the mood."