Manchester City faced their first defeat of the 2024/25 Premier League season in a surprising 2-1 loss to Bournemouth on Saturday, snapping an impressive 32-game unbeaten streak. Bournemouth struck first with a goal from Antoine Semenyo just nine minutes in. Later, Evanilson extended the lead, leaving City scrambling to catch up. Though Josko Gvardiol found the net for City, his goal served only as a consolation for the defending champions.
After the game, City’s manager Pep Guardiola remarked, “We knew their intensity would be tough to match. We had chances, but Bournemouth’s aggression and physicality gave them the edge.” He acknowledged the strong performance from City’s goalkeeper Ederson, who made key saves, but admitted the team struggled to convert their momentum into goals.
Liverpool Reclaims Top Spot After Brighton Victory
Meanwhile, Liverpool climbed back to the top of the Premier League standings with a thrilling 2-1 comeback against Brighton at Anfield. Mohamed Salah’s stunning goal completed Liverpool’s resurgence, marking their 13th win in 15 matches and placing them two points clear of Manchester City.
Liverpool trailed at halftime due to an impressive strike from Ferdi Kadioglu. However, a quick double from Cody Gakpo and Salah capitalized on Brighton’s inability to widen their lead in the first half. Liverpool, managed by Arne Slot, rotated their lineup from their midweek League Cup match, yet Brighton dominated the first 45 minutes, even as Liverpool’s Darwin Nunez nearly scored on a solo run.
Kadioglu’s powerful shot opened the scoring in the 14th minute, hitting the post’s inside edge. Liverpool’s backup keeper, Caoimhin Kelleher, filling in for the injured Alisson Becker, made a crucial stop to keep Brighton from adding to their lead. Despite Brighton’s efforts, including a missed chance by Georginio Rutter, they couldn’t capitalize.
Liverpool’s fortunes shifted after halftime. Slot’s pep talk seemed to reinvigorate the team, with close chances from Alexis Mac Allister and Virgil van Dijk. Brighton’s defense held firm until the 60th minute when Gakpo’s cross unexpectedly found its way into the far corner, bringing Liverpool level. Just minutes later, Salah sealed the comeback with a brilliant strike, putting Liverpool ahead and sending Anfield into celebration.
Brighton’s last-minute push wasn’t enough to steal points back, as Liverpool held on for a crucial win on a day that saw both Manchester City and Arsenal drop points.
