Manchester City vs Brentford

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

Match Analysis

Manchester City vs Brentford: Premier League 2024 Analysis

Final Score: Manchester City 2-1 Brentford

Overview

The Premier League clash between Manchester City and Brentford on September 14, 2024, at the Etihad Stadium ended in a 2-1 victory for the home side. The match was a testament to Manchester City's resilience and Erling Haaland's extraordinary form, as they came from behind to secure their fourth consecutive win of the season.

Key Moments and Goals

  1. Yoane Wissa's Early Goal (0-1)

    • Brentford stunned Manchester City by taking the lead just 22 seconds into the match. A cross from Kristoffer Ajer was headed back across goal by Keane Lewis-Potter, leading to a defensive mix-up between John Stones and Ederson. Wissa capitalized on the error to head the ball into an empty net, marking the fastest goal ever scored by an away team at the Etihad Stadium.

  2. Erling Haaland's Equalizer (1-1)

    • City responded in the 14th minute when Kevin De Bruyne's pass deflected into Haaland's path. The Norwegian striker turned and fired a shot that deflected off Ethan Pinnock and into the net, leveling the score.

  3. Haaland's Second Goal (2-1)

    • Haaland completed the comeback in the 27th minute. Ederson launched a long ball over the Brentford defense, and Haaland used his strength and pace to outmuscle Pinnock before calmly chipping the ball over goalkeeper Mark Flekken.

Tactical Analysis

Manchester City

  • Formation and Lineup:

    • Pep Guardiola deployed a 4-3-3 formation with Ederson in goal, a back four of 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 featured Savinho, Erling Haaland, and Jack Grealish.

  • Defensive Struggles:

    • City's defense looked shaky in the opening minutes, struggling to deal with Brentford's high press and quick transitions. John Stones, in particular, appeared off the pace, contributing to the early goal conceded.

  • Midfield Control:

    • After the initial setback, City's midfield began to assert control. Kevin De Bruyne's vision and passing were instrumental in creating opportunities, while Mateo Kovacic and Ilkay Gundogan provided stability and ball distribution.

  • Haaland's Impact:

    • Erling Haaland was the standout performer, showcasing his lethal finishing and physical prowess. His ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play was crucial, and his two goals demonstrated his clinical nature in front of goal.

Brentford

  • Formation and Lineup:

    • Thomas Frank set up his team in a 4-4-2 formation, with Mark Flekken in goal, a back four of Kristoffer Ajer, Sepp van den Berg, Ethan Pinnock, and Nathan Collins. The midfield quartet included Mikkel Damsgaard, Christian Norgaard, Vitaly Janelt, and Keane Lewis-Potter, while Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa led the attack.

  • High Press and Quick Transitions:

    • Brentford's high press and quick transitions caused problems for City early on. They capitalized on defensive errors and created several chances, with Bryan Mbeumo and Nathan Collins coming close to extending their lead.

  • Defensive Resilience:

    • Despite conceding two goals, Brentford's defense, particularly Mark Flekken, put in a commendable performance. Flekken made several crucial saves to keep his team in the game, denying Haaland a hat-trick.

Player Performances

Manchester City

  • Erling Haaland (10/10):

    • Haaland was exceptional, scoring both goals and constantly threatening Brentford's defense. His physicality, pace, and finishing were on full display.

  • Kevin De Bruyne (8/10):

    • De Bruyne was City's creative engine, providing the assist for Haaland's first goal and orchestrating play from midfield.

  • Ederson (8/10):

    • The goalkeeper made important saves and contributed an assist with his long ball for Haaland's second goal.

Brentford

  • Mark Flekken (8/10):

    • Flekken was outstanding, making several key saves to keep Brentford in the match.

  • Yoane Wissa (7/10):

    • Wissa's early goal gave Brentford hope, and he was a constant threat until his injury forced him off.

  • Ethan Pinnock (4/10):

    • Pinnock struggled to contain Haaland, particularly on the second goal