Manchester City Triumph Over Brentford Despite Early Setback
In a thrilling Premier League clash at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City overcame a shockingly early goal to secure a 2-1 victory against Brentford, with star striker Erling Haaland breaking yet another record. The victory stretched City’s unbeaten streak at home to 46 matches, but it was far from a straightforward win, as Brentford took the lead within just 22 seconds of kickoff.
Brentford’s Fast Start Shakes the Etihad
Brentford wasted no time in making their presence felt. From the very first moments, they took advantage of Manchester City’s defensive error to get on the scoresheet. Yoanne Wissa pounced on a miscommunication between John Stones and Ederson, slotting the ball into an empty net after just 22 seconds.
The goal shocked the City faithful, recalling memories of Brentford’s last win at the Etihad back in November 2022. At that time, the Bees had beaten City 2-1, and for the first 20 minutes of this match, it seemed they might repeat history.
Brentford, full of confidence after their early lead, applied relentless pressure. Their front line of Wissa, Bryan Mbeumo, and Nathan Collins kept the Manchester City defense busy, creating several chances to double their lead. However, City gradually regained their composure and started to work their way back into the game.
Haaland Strikes to Equalize
Manchester City’s response came, unsurprisingly, from their talisman, Erling Haaland. The Norwegian striker, who has been in sensational form since the start of the season, brought his team level in the 19th minute. Kevin De Bruyne, as so often the provider, threaded a ball through to Haaland, who fired a precise low shot into the far corner. It was a goal out of nothing, typical of Haaland’s poacher instincts.
With that goal, the momentum shifted decisively in Manchester City’s favor. Brentford, who had looked so strong in the early stages, began to struggle as City turned up the pressure. Haaland’s goal not only restored parity but also energized the entire team, who began creating more and more chances as the half progressed.
Haaland Breaks Premier League Record with Second Goal
It wasn’t long before Haaland made his mark again. In the 34th minute, City’s goalkeeper Ederson launched a long ball forward, and Haaland, showing remarkable speed and composure, latched onto it. From the edge of the box, he fired the ball past Brentford’s keeper David Raya to make it 2-1.
This goal marked Haaland’s ninth of the season, setting a new Premier League record for the most goals scored in a team’s first four games. The previous record was held by Wayne Rooney, who had scored eight goals for Manchester United in the 2011-12 season. Haaland’s achievement at this early stage in the season highlights his incredible impact and consistency since joining Manchester City.
Second Half: City Control as Brentford Struggle to Respond
The second half saw Manchester City take control of the match. Brentford, who had looked so dangerous in the opening 20 minutes, were forced to play more defensively as City dominated possession. Erling Haaland had a golden opportunity to complete his hat-trick in the 65th minute, but his shot hit the post, much to the relief of the Brentford defense.
Brentford tried to mount a response, but they found it difficult to break through City’s solid defense. City’s midfield, led by the ever-dominant Rodri and De Bruyne, kept the game flowing in their favor. Riyad Mahrez and Jack Grealish also posed a threat on the wings, stretching Brentford’s defense and creating space for Haaland and Julian Alvarez up front.
Despite their best efforts, Brentford couldn’t find a way back into the game. City’s defense, led by Ruben Dias and John Stones, held firm, and Ederson had little to do in the second half. Brentford’s best chance to equalize came in the 78th minute when Mbeumo’s shot was saved comfortably by Ederson.
Haaland’s Early Season Form is Unstoppable
With this victory, Manchester City’s unbeaten home run continues, but the focus will undoubtedly be on Erling Haaland. His performance in this match further cements his status as one of the Premier League’s most formidable strikers. Nine goals in four games is an extraordinary achievement, and if he continues at this pace, Haaland could be on track to break more records as the season progresses.
Haaland’s ability to be in the right place at the right time, combined with his clinical finishing, makes him a constant threat. His partnership with Kevin De Bruyne, who has been supplying him with perfect assists, is proving to be a game-changer for City.
Brentford’s Strong Performance Goes Unrewarded
Despite the defeat, Brentford can take pride in their performance. They were the better team for the opening 20 minutes and showed that they can compete with the very best in the league. Their fast-paced, attacking style will trouble many other teams this season, and while they may have left the Etihad empty-handed, they certainly didn’t lose their dignity.
Thomas Frank’s men will be disappointed not to have built on their early lead, but their resilience and creativity will serve them well going forward in the season. Brentford’s ability to press high and take advantage of City’s mistakes early in the match is a testament to their quality.
Conclusion: City March On, Haaland Steals the Show
In the end, Manchester City’s quality shone through, and Erling Haaland once again proved to be the difference-maker. His two goals not only secured three points for City but also placed him in the Premier League record books.
Brentford, while impressive, could not maintain their early momentum, and Manchester City’s relentless pressure eventually wore them down. The defending champions continue to look formidable, and with Haaland in this kind of form, it’s hard to see anyone stopping them.
As City’s unbeaten home streak stretches to 46 games, the rest of the Premier League will be left wondering how to stop the Haaland juggernaut.
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