Manchester City vs Brighton & Hove Albion: Premier League Preview
Manchester City hosts Brighton & Hove Albion at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, looking to bounce back from their 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest last weekend. With nine games to go, Pep Guardiola’s side is in a Champions League qualification battle, sitting 5th in the Premier League table.
City have been inconsistent all season, and their last result showed they can’t create clear-cut chances despite having all the possession. They can’t afford to drop more points as they push for a top 5, which could get them Champions League football under the new UEFA coefficient rules.
Brighton arrive in Manchester in great form, having won 4 consecutive Premier League games. They’ll be full of confidence and looking to complete the league double over City after beating them in the reverse fixture back in November.
Team News & Tactics
Manchester City
Pep Guardiola has big injury problems, especially in defence. Nathan Ake joins John Stones and Manuel Akanji on the sidelines; Rodri and Oscar Bobb are long-term absentees. Guardiola will set his side up in a 4-2-3-1.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Ederson; Lewis, Dias, Khusanov, Gvardiol; Gundogan, Gonzalez; Foden, De Bruyne, Doku; Haaland
Brighton & Hove Albion
Brighton have their own injury problems. James Milner, Igor Julio, Jason Steele, Lewis Dunk, Joel Veltman, Ferdi Kadioglu are all out. Roberto De Zerbi will set his side up in a 4-2-3-1 as well.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Verbruggen; Lamptey, van Hecke, Webster, Estupinan; Baleba, Ayari; Adingra, Rutter, Mitoma; Pedro
Key Stats
- Manchester City have won their last 8 home games against Brighton in all competitions.
- Brighton have scored 2+ goals in their last 5 Premier League games.
- Manchester City have lost 3 of their last 5 Premier League games.
- Brighton have won 4 consecutive league games and will be looking to make it 5.##
Player to Watch: Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland is Manchester City’s main attacking threat. The Norwegian has been in fantastic form this season and will look to exploit Brighton’s weaknesses. With Kevin De Bruyne behind him, Haaland’s movement and finishing could be the difference.
Manchester City vs Brighton Prediction
City’s home record against Brighton gives them the edge going into this one. But Brighton’s recent form suggests they will be a test. Expect a tight game with City to edge it.
Manchester City 2-1 Brighton & Hove Albion
Manchester City vs Brighton Live Stream
Watch online via NaijaSport247 TV
