A superb first half display paved the way for a comfortable City victory at the AMEX Community Stadium, where Phil Foden’s brace and a goal apiece from Ilkay Gundogan and substitute Riyad Mahrez downed the Seagulls.
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The defending champions were three goals to the good just after the half hour mark, with Gundogan tapping in from the brilliant Bernardo Silva’s pass after Robert Sanchez spilled Foden’s deflected effort.
The Academy graduate finished off a lightening quick counter-attack after good play from Bernardo and Jack Grealish to double our lead and, two minutes later, he inadvertently netted our third when Gabriel Jesus’ strike brushed off him on its way past Sanchez.
Brighton rallied after the break, when they enjoyed a 25-minute spell of pressure and it was rewarded when Ederson brought down Enock Mwepu inside the area.
The Brazilian got two hands to Alexis Mac Allister’s spot-kick, but couldn’t keep it out.
However, City regrouped and were on top in the closing stages, when Foden squared for Mahrez to slam home a fourth.
Match report: Brighton 1-4 City
Highlights: Brighton 1-4 City
