Brighton finally have their first Premier League victory of the campaign — and it came in dramatic fashion. Substitute Brajan Gruda struck in the 89th minute to seal a comeback 2-1 win over Manchester City, leaving Pep Guardiola’s side reeling from back-to-back defeats.
The German midfielder showed composure beyond his years, rounding goalkeeper James Trafford before slotting home the winner. Moments earlier, Trafford had denied Jan Paul van Hecke with a brilliant save, but this time City’s stand-in shot-stopper was helpless.
City had looked in control early on. Erling Haaland, making his 100th Premier League appearance, opened the scoring with his 88th goal for the club — a typically clinical finish that underlined his extraordinary strike rate. For much of the opening hour, City dominated possession and chances, but wastefulness in front of goal kept Brighton in the contest.
The turning point came midway through the second half when Matheus Nunes was penalized for handball inside the box. Veteran James Milner stepped up and calmly converted from the spot, scoring his first league goal since 2019. At 39 years and 239 days old, Milner became the second-oldest scorer in Premier League history — a moment that drew roars from the home crowd.
Then came Gruda’s late strike, sparking jubilation at the Amex and leaving City stunned for the second week in a row following last weekend’s defeat to Spurs.
City, who lost 2-0 at home to Spurs last weekend, have only three points from three games, while Brighton have four following this dramatic win.
