Man City and Brighton share spoils after cracking encounter

Manchester City and Brighton played an entertaining 1-1 draw after both managers were full of each other's praise prior to the match.

The Seagulls hosted the champions as the AmEx as they looked to confirm Europa League qualification. The hosts were undaunted by the challenge, picking up a crucial point after a closely contested tussle.

Although the game was a mere formality for the visitors, as they have been crowned champions, Guardiola's side maintained intensity against the Seagulls, who needed at least a point from the game to confirm Europa League qualification, setting up a cracking encounter. 

It was an end-to-end affair, but Roberto de Zerbi's side looked to want it more as they fired shot after shot, but it was Manchester City who found the opener.

 From a sweeping counter-attacking move, Riyad Mahrez put Erling Haaland through on goal, however, instead of shooting, the Norwegian overcomplicated play. With the angles closing in on him, he opted to tee up Phil Foden, who fired into the net with his weak foot.  

The goal served as motivation for the hosts, who launched an offensive on the City backline. 

They found the equaliser in the 38th minute thanks to a potential goal-of-the-season stunner by youngster Julio Enciso. 

Both teams attempted to take the lead, with Brighton having the better chances. But the game remained a draw.  

Haaland thought he found the winner for the champions in the 80th minute, but VAR ruled out the goal as he was found to have fouled Levi Colwill before scoring. 

Both teams shared the spoils on the night, and Brighton confirmed their place in Europe's second-tier competition.