Manchester City came from behind to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brentford, thanks to a brilliant brace from Erling Haaland. The result keeps City’s perfect Premier League record intact, with four wins from four games.
Haaland’s two goals not only turned the game in City’s favor but also saw him break yet another record, becoming the first player to score nine goals in the opening four matches of a Premier League season.
Brentford’s Lightning Start
The game kicked off with a shock. Brentford wasted no time in unsettling the champions, taking the lead just 22 seconds into the match—the fastest goal of the Premier League season so far.
A header from Keane Lewis-Potter caused confusion in City’s defense, and Yoane Wissa capitalized, nodding the ball past Ederson to stun the Etihad Stadium.
For a moment, Brentford looked capable of pulling off an upset as they pressed aggressively and controlled possession in the early stages.
City’s Response: Haaland Strikes Back
Manchester City, initially rattled, needed someone to step up, and it was none other than Erling Haaland. The Norwegian forward, who had been doubtful for the game due to personal reasons, delivered when his team needed him most.
In the 19th minute, Haaland struck with a deflected shot that beat Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken, leveling the match. Just before halftime, Haaland struck again. This time, Ederson launched a long ball forward, catching Brentford’s defense off guard.
Haaland latched onto it and calmly dinked the ball over Flekken, giving City a crucial 2-1 lead heading into the break.
A Nervy Second Half
After the break, City began to establish more control over the game, but Brentford remained dangerous. The visitors had more possession and continued to create chances, with Nathan Collins coming close to leveling the score.
City’s midfield, bolstered by the return of Rodri, helped push Brentford back, and City created more scoring opportunities as the second half wore on.
Jack Grealish and Savinho both had chances to extend the lead, while Haaland nearly completed his hat-trick but was denied by the post.
Brentford’s Brave Effort Falls Short
Though Brentford started brightly and caused City problems throughout the match, they lacked the cutting edge to break through in the second half.
Their early goal was a moment of brilliance, but further chances went begging. Wissa’s opener after 22 seconds was Brentford’s only goal, and despite their brave performance, they couldn’t find the net again.
Late in stoppage time, Brentford nearly snatched a dramatic equalizer. Yegor Yarmolyuk’s dragged effort had City fans on edge, but the shot went wide, allowing City to breathe a sigh of relief and secure the win.
Haaland Shines Again
The game’s outcome was largely determined by Haaland’s clinical finishing. His first-half brace not only turned the tide in City’s favor but also continued his incredible goal-scoring run.
Haaland now has nine goals in four matches, a new Premier League record for the most goals scored in the first four games of a season.
Although he came agonizingly close to securing a hat-trick, Haaland’s performance was enough to secure all three points for City.
With every match, he seems to set new standards, and his contribution was once again pivotal in City’s quest to defend their Premier League title.
City’s Perfect Start
With the win, Manchester City maintained their perfect start to the season. Four games, four wins, and Haaland at the center of it all. The victory keeps City at the top of the Premier League, setting the stage for a thrilling title race.
Brentford, despite their valiant effort, drop to seventh in the table, but their performance showed they are capable of competing against the league’s best.
Conclusion
Manchester City’s 2-1 victory over Brentford was a hard-fought battle, highlighted by Haaland’s brilliance. Brentford’s early goal may have shocked City, but Haaland’s two goals ensured that City’s perfect record remained intact.
As City prepares for bigger challenges ahead, including a clash with Arsenal, their star striker’s incredible form will be a key factor in their ongoing success.