Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola offered insights into his team’s 2-1 Premier League loss to Brighton, pointing to fatigue and Brighton’s tactical changes as key factors in the defeat.
The match saw City start strong, with Erling Haaland securing an early lead. However, two second-half goals from Brighton’s Joao Pedro and Matt O’Riley overturned City’s advantage, giving Brighton the victory.
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Pep Guardiola Praises Players Despite Defeat
In his post-match interview, Pep Guardiola praised Brighton’s dynamic play, emphasizing their skill with the ball and speed in attack.
He noted that while City performed well in the first half, the team struggled with fatigue as the game wore on. Guardiola highlighted the impact of Brighton’s substitutions, which brought fresh energy to the field, something City was unable to match due to limited options.
“They [City players] were magnificent in many ways. Brighton were really good with the ball and a lot of pace up front,” Guardiola commented.
“In the first half, we were brilliant. But in the second, fatigue set in, and they made changes that we cannot do right now, and we lost the game.”