Brighton stun Manchester City 3-2 in WSL thriller as City’s title celebrations are delayed despite strong fightback

Brighton & Hove Albion produced a major Women’s Super League shock on Saturday, April 26, 2026, defeating Manchester City 3-2 at home to delay the visitors’ title celebrations in a tense and high-quality encounter.

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Manchester City started brightly and took the lead in the fifth minute through Kerolin, who punished a defensive lapse with a composed finish into the top corner.

Brighton responded strongly, growing into the match and finding an equaliser in first-half stoppage time through Madison Haley, who converted from close range after a well-worked assist from Fran Kirby.

The hosts carried momentum into the second half and took the lead shortly after the restart when Kiko Seike struck a powerful effort into the roof of the net.

Haley added her second goal in the 65th minute after reacting quickest to a rebound, giving Brighton a two-goal cushion and putting the visitors under significant pressure.

City pushed late and reduced the deficit through Khadija Shaw in the 86th minute, but Brighton held firm through a tense closing spell to secure a statement victory.

Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie was heavily involved throughout, making several important saves inside the box, commanding her area under pressure, and contributing to Brighton’s defensive resilience despite conceding twice.

She also recorded three clearances, multiple recoveries, and 26 completed passes, reflecting her involvement beyond shot-stopping duties.

City’s defeat means they remain top of the table but must wait longer to secure the league title, with rivals still in pursuit as the season enters its final stages.

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Brighton, meanwhile, will take confidence from the result as they continue their campaign with a trip to face Manchester United in their next fixture.