Manchester City seized the opportunity presented by defending champions Liverpool’s slip-up this weekend, grinding out a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Brentford in west London on Sunday. The win stretches the Citizens’ unbeaten run across all competitions to seven matches and moves Pep Guardiola’s side within three points of the Premier League summit.
Despite Brentford’s reputation for fast starts, it was City who delivered the early knockout blow. Known for their intricate passing, the opening goal arrived from an unexpectedly direct source. A long ball forward from defender Joško Gvardiol found Erling Haaland, who used his immense strength to muscle Sepp van den Berg off the ball before powering an effort past goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher at his near post in the 9th minute.
City dominated the possession and tempo in the opening stages, but their afternoon took a sour turn midway through the first half when they suffered a major setback. Midfield lynchpin Rodri dropped to the turf clutching the back of his right leg and was forced off with what appeared to be a suspected hamstring problem. This injury is particularly concerning given the Ballon d’Or winner’s recent struggles with fitness following an ACL injury last season. He was replaced by Nico Gonzalez.
Brentford’s Second Half Pressure Falls Short
Despite losing their anchor, City managed to maintain their narrow lead into the break, thanks in part to a stunning one-handed reaction save by Kelleher to deny Tijjani Reijnders on the volley. Tellingly, the home side failed to record a single touch in the City box during the first 45 minutes—a first in their Premier League history at the Gtech Community Stadium.
However, Brentford emerged from the dressing room with renewed purpose. Within two minutes of the restart, they created their best chance of the game. Igor Thiago strode clear on goal, but a heavy touch allowed City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma to rush out and smother the Brazilian’s dinked effort.
The Bees continued to press, chasing the equalizer, with Michael Kayode later heading over a promising far-post chance. City, showing their vulnerable side after squandering 1-0 leads in two of their last three Premier League away games, were pinned back defensively and struggled to find the insurance goal.
Ultimately, City’s defence held firm against the pressure, securing a vital three points and a crucial clean sheet. The victory was also a personal milestone for manager Pep Guardiola, marking his 250th Premier League win, achieved in a record 349 matches. Brentford remain in the lower echelons of the tab
