Manchester City’s struggles in their quest for Champions League qualification continued as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Brighton in a thrilling contest at the Etihad Stadium.
Despite twice taking the lead, Pep Guardiola’s side were unable to hold firm against their determined opponents, who remain in the hunt for a top-five finish.
Erling Haaland achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming the fastest player to reach 100 Premier League goal involvements.
Marking his 94th appearance in the competition, the Norwegian forward netted his 84th goal in style, calmly sending Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen the wrong way from the penalty spot in the 11th minute.
The visitors responded brilliantly with a stunning free-kick from Pervis Estupiñán, whose curling effort struck the post before bouncing in.
Stand-in City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega, deputizing for the injured Ederson, was left stranded after initially shifting to his right before belatedly adjusting, ultimately watching in disbelief as the ball found the net.
Brighton struck again when Omar Marmoush fired a superb 20-yard effort into the bottom corner.
However, City’s fragile defense proved costly once more, as Abdukodir Khusanov inadvertently turned Jack Hinshelwood’s shot into his own net just three minutes after the break.
As the match reached a frantic conclusion, Guardiola grew visibly frustrated with referee Simon Hooper, particularly over challenges on Josko Gvardiol and Bernardo Silva, the latter forced off just 18 minutes after coming on.
City pushed for a winner, with Nico González striking the post, but it was Brighton who came closest to snatching victory.
Carlos Baleba squandered a golden opportunity, blasting his shot over the bar from 12 yards after arriving unmarked to meet Joao Pedro’s cross.
Despite the pulsating action, City were left ruing another missed opportunity in their bid to secure European football next season.
