Match Analysis

Manchester City vs Brentford: Premier League 2024 Analysis

Final Score: Manchester City 2-1 Brentford

Overview

Manchester City maintained their perfect start to the Premier League season with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brentford at the Etihad Stadium. The match, played on September 14, 2024, saw City come from behind to secure the win, thanks to a brace from Erling Haaland. Brentford took a shock lead just 22 seconds into the game through Yoane Wissa, but Haaland's double ensured City took all three points.

Key Moments

Early Shock for City: Brentford stunned the Etihad Stadium by scoring the fastest goal of the season. Yoane Wissa capitalized on a defensive error, heading home after just 22 seconds. This goal marked the quickest ever scored by an away team at the Etihad.
Haaland's Equalizer: City responded in the 19th minute when Kevin De Bruyne's pass found Haaland, who turned and shot from a tight angle. The ball deflected off Ethan Pinnock and found the back of the net, leveling the score.
Haaland's Second: The Norwegian striker completed the comeback in the 32nd minute. Ederson's long ball found Haaland, who outmuscled Pinnock and chipped the ball over Brentford's goalkeeper Mark Flekken.
Brentford's Missed Opportunities: Brentford had several chances to extend their lead early in the game. Bryan Mbeumo and Nathan Collins both came close, but City's defense and goalkeeper Ederson managed to keep them at bay.
Haaland Denied Hat-Trick: Haaland came close to scoring a hat-trick, hitting the post in the 81st minute and forcing several saves from Flekken. Despite his efforts, he couldn't secure his third consecutive hat-trick.

Tactical Analysis

Manchester City

Formation and Lineup: City lined up in a 4-3-3 formation. Key players included Ederson in goal, a backline featuring Kyle Walker, John Stones, Manuel Akanji, and Rico Lewis. The midfield trio consisted of Mateo Kovacic, Kevin De Bruyne, and Ilkay Gundogan, while the front three were Savinho, Erling Haaland, and Jack Grealish.
Defensive Issues: City's defense looked shaky at the start, with John Stones' error leading to Brentford's early goal. However, they gradually regained composure, with Ederson making crucial saves.
Midfield Control: Kevin De Bruyne was instrumental in City's midfield, providing the assist for Haaland's first goal and controlling the tempo of the game. Mateo Kovacic and Ilkay Gundogan provided stability but were substituted at halftime for Rodri and Josko Gvardiol to strengthen the midfield.
Haaland's Impact: Haaland's physicality and finishing were key to City's comeback. His ability to hold off defenders and convert chances was evident in both his goals.

Brentford

Formation and Lineup: Brentford employed a 4-4-2 formation. Key players included Mark Flekken in goal, a defense featuring Kristoffer Ajer, Sepp van den Berg, Ethan Pinnock, and Nathan Collins. The midfield consisted of Mikkel Damsgaard, Christian Norgaard, Vitaly Janelt, and Keane Lewis-Potter, with Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa leading the attack.
High Press and Counter-Attacks: Brentford's high press caused problems for City early on, leading to their opening goal. They were effective in transition, creating several chances on the counter-attack.
Defensive Resilience: Despite conceding two goals, Brentford's defense, particularly Mark Flekken, put in a commendable performance. Flekken made several key saves to keep Brentford in the game.
Missed Opportunities: Brentford's inability to capitalize on their early dominance and missed chances ultimately cost them. They could have extended their lead but failed to convert key opportunities.

Player Performances

Manchester City

Erling Haaland (10/10): The standout performer, Haaland's two goals were crucial in City's comeback. His strength, pace, and finishing were on full display.
Kevin De Bruyne (8/10): Provided the assist for Haaland's first goal and was a constant threat with his passing and vision.
Ederson (8/10): Made several important saves and provided the assist for Haaland's second goal with a long ball.

Brentford

Mark Flekken (8/10): Despite conceding two goals, Flekken made numerous saves to keep Brentford in the game.
**Yoane Wissa