Erling Haaland's brace propelled Manchester City to a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over Brentford, maintaining their perfect start to the Premier League season and leaving them as the only team with a flawless record. Despite trailing at the break, the champions displayed their resilience and attacking prowess to secure all three points.
Manchester City overcame a stern challenge from Brentford with a stirring 2-1 comeback victory at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, thanks to Erling Haaland's brace. The reigning champions fell behind to Yoane Wissa's early strike but summoned their trademark resilience and attacking flair to secure their third consecutive league win and maintain their perfect start.
Manchester City's Perfect Start Continues with Dramatic 2-1 Comeback Victory Over Brentford
Brentford started brightly and deservedly took the lead in the 19th minute. A slick passing move culminated in Rico Henry's cross, which was met by the unmarked Wissa, who coolly slotted home from close range. City were rattled but gradually regained their composure. Manuel Akanji came close to equalizing with a header that crashed off the crossbar, but it was not until the second half that the champions truly came into their own.
Pep Guardiola introduced Riyad Mahrez at the interval, and the Algerian's presence immediately sparked City's attack. Within minutes, Haaland drew them level with a typically predatory finish, nodding home from close range following Kevin De Bruyne's superb cross. The Norwegian striker was then denied by a smart save from David Raya, but he was not to be denied a second time.
In the 75th minute, De Bruyne's perfectly weighted pass released Haaland, who raced onto the ball and fired an unstoppable shot into the bottom corner. The Etihad erupted in celebration, and City held on comfortably to secure another hard-fought three points.
Haaland's brace marked his fourth and fifth goals in just three Premier League appearances, further highlighting his exceptional finishing abilities. The Norwegian has now scored 13 goals in his last 10 league matches dating back to his time at Borussia Dortmund, showcasing his remarkable consistency.
Manchester City's victory was not without its challenges. They had to overcome a determined Brentford side that played with great intensity and organization. The Bees created several other scoring opportunities, including a late chance for Bryan Mbeumo that was brilliantly saved by Ederson.
However, City's quality ultimately shone through. They controlled possession with ease, created numerous chances, and displayed great character to come from behind. Guardiola was full of praise for the team's performance after the match.
"We had to be patient, and we had to fight," the City manager said. "Brentford are a good team, and they made it very difficult for us. But we kept going, and we got our reward. It's a great result for us, and I'm very proud of the players."
Manchester City's perfect start to the season has put them in a strong position at the top of the table. They are the only team to have won all three of their opening matches, and they will be confident of extending their winning streak when they travel to Newcastle United next weekend.
