Why were brave Brighton unable to bypass City’s inertia?

Manchester City came out on top against Brighton on Saturday to send themselves into the FA Cup Final in May. An early goal from Gabriel Jesus after a wicked ball in from Kevin De Bruyne was enough to give the Citizens a 1-0 victory.

The match itself was somewhat lifeless, with City below their best and Brighton doing a useful job at nullifying their threat. The Seagulls themselves had the odd brief opening  mainly from set pieces  but were unable to make anything count.

It was a battling performance from Brighton, who set up rigidly to contain their omnipotent opponents. Jesus’s early goal did not see them waver from their defensive game plan. Indeed, Manchester City could hardly have been accused of missing any sitters. They were limited to few openings throughout the match.

The result means that City are still in the running to win the quadruple, although Pep Guardiola has continued to play down his sides’ chances of achieving that feat.

Setups

Pep Guardiola’s ever present 4-3-3 saw some rotation in personnel for this match. Benjamin Mendy and Kevin De Bruyne made rare starts in what has been an injury blighted season for both players.

İlkay Gündoğan came in as the midfield pivot with Fernandinho rested, while Gabriel Jesus started up front. The Brazilian has been in the shadow of Sergio Agüero this season, with the Argentinian in scintillating form. Jesus has started only eight Premier League matches this season.

Brighton went with a solid 4-1-4-1/4-5-1. Dale Stephens played the role of midfield anchor, while Glenn Murray was tasked with the unenviable role of lone front man in Saturday’s match. It was a lineup focused on defence, with the reliable pair of Lewis Dunk and Shane Duffy at the back.

Anthony Knockaert provided creativity from the wing, and the Frenchman put in an excellent performance for the Seagulls. He had a pass success rate of 91% as well as making four dribbles throughout the match, the most out of anyone on the pitch.