Manchester City vs Brentford

Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 2:00 PM UTC

Match Analysis

Manchester City vs Brentford: Premier League 2024 Detailed Analysis

Final Score: Manchester City 2-1 Brentford

Overview

Manchester City maintained their perfect start to the Premier League season with a 2-1 victory over Brentford at the Etihad Stadium. The match, played on September 14, 2024, saw City come from behind after conceding the fastest goal of the season. Erling Haaland was the star of the show, scoring both goals for City and continuing his remarkable scoring run.

Key Moments

Early Shock for City

Brentford stunned the home crowd by taking the lead just 22 seconds into the match. A defensive mix-up between John Stones and Ederson allowed Yoane Wissa to nod the ball into an empty net. This was the earliest goal City had ever conceded at home in the Premier League.

Haaland's Response

Despite the early setback, City quickly found their rhythm. Kevin De Bruyne, who was instrumental throughout the match, set up Haaland for the equalizer in the 19th minute. Haaland, facing away from goal, swiveled and shot, with the ball deflecting off Ethan Pinnock and into the net.

The Winning Goal

City took the lead in the 32nd minute through a classic route-one play. Ederson launched a long ball over the Brentford defense, and Haaland outmuscled Pinnock before chipping the ball over goalkeeper Mark Flekken. This goal marked Haaland's ninth of the season, setting a new Premier League record for the most goals in the first four matches of a season.

Tactical Analysis

Manchester City

  • Formation: 4-3-3
  • Key Players: Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, Ederson
  • Tactics: City struggled initially with Brentford's high press and quick transitions. However, they adapted by utilizing long balls and quick passing to break down Brentford's deep block. De Bruyne's vision and Haaland's physicality were crucial in turning the game around.

Brentford

  • Formation: 4-4-2
  • Key Players: Yoane Wissa, Bryan Mbeumo, Mark Flekken
  • Tactics: Brentford started aggressively, capitalizing on City's defensive errors. They were effective in transitions and created several chances in the first half. However, they couldn't maintain the same intensity throughout the match and struggled to contain Haaland.

Player Performances

Manchester City

  • Erling Haaland (10/10): The Norwegian striker was in sensational form, scoring both goals and coming close to a third. His physical presence and finishing ability were too much for Brentford to handle.
  • Kevin De Bruyne (8/10): The Belgian midfielder was the creative hub for City, providing the assist for Haaland's first goal and orchestrating play from midfield.
  • Ederson (8/10): Despite the early error, Ederson made several crucial saves and provided the assist for Haaland's second goal.

Brentford

  • Yoane Wissa (7/10): Scored the opening goal and was a constant threat in the first half. His early exit due to injury was a blow for Brentford.
  • Mark Flekken (8/10): The Dutch goalkeeper made several important saves to keep Brentford in the game, including denying Haaland a hat-trick.
  • Bryan Mbeumo (6/10): Showed flashes of brilliance but was unable to convert his chances.

Managerial Insights

Pep Guardiola (Manchester City)

Guardiola praised Brentford's performance and acknowledged the difficulty of the match. He highlighted Haaland's resilience and the team's ability to adapt and overcome the early setback. Guardiola's tactical changes at halftime, including bringing on Rodri and Josko Gvardiol, helped stabilize City's defense and control the game.

Thomas Frank (Brentford)

Frank expressed pride in his team's performance but was disappointed not to come away with a point. He praised his players' effort and acknowledged Guardiola's tactical acumen. Frank's ability to get the best out of his squad continues to draw admiration, with Guardiola suggesting that it's only a matter of time before Frank manages a top European club.

Statistical Highlights

  • Possession: Manchester City dominated possession, controlling 65% of the ball.
  • Shots: City had 18 shots, with 8 on target, while Brentford managed 10 shots, with 4 on target.
  • Pass Accuracy: City completed 88% of their passes, showcasing their typical high level of ball retention and distribution.

Conclusion

Manchester City's 2-1 victory over Brentford was a testament to their resilience and quality. Despite an early scare, they managed to turn the game around thanks to Erling Haaland's brilliance and Pep Guardiola