In the second consecutive round of the Premier League, Manchester City will play against a direct rival for a position in the Champions League zone. Last weekend, the Citizens failed to pass with dignity the obstacle in the face of Nottingham Forest. On the Foresters' pitch, Guardiola's charges faced an echeloned and disciplined work of the opposing defence, which prevented the Mancunians from scoring, as well as the sharp play of Hudson-Odoi. Callum realised one of his two chances, which was enough for Nottingham Forest's victory. How many bets have been burned on Manchester City this year is beyond counting! Most of them were on the victories of the champion of England right after his defeats, when it seemed to the "bettor" that this football machine was about to defeat the opponent. However, month after month, since the onset of the crisis at the club, Manchester City often disappoints those who believe in the awakening of the champion power of the team. And before the meeting with Brighton, it seems that Manchester City's motivation is unbelievable, and the match is on their home field. Except that the Seagulls are not a gift either. Just over a month the team beat everyone in a row in two national tournaments and no less interested than the opponent in continuing the series for the final position in the Champions League zone. Bookmakers have identified the hosts as favourites for the upcoming meeting, offering odds of 1.66 on their victory.

At the cut-off point of January and February, Brighton lost two matches in a row, playing them frankly weak. The defeat from Everton was on their own field, and from Nottingham Forest away, but with a nightmarish score of 0:7. After this slap "gulls" quickly recovered, in the FA Cup beat Chelsea and Newcastle, and in the championship the same Chelsea, Southampton, Bournemouth and Fulham. Such successes allowed Brighton at arm's length to get closer to the Champions League zone of the English Championship. Of course, competing with Newcastle, Chelsea and Manchester City for such an achievement will not be easy, but when the "gulls" were intimidated by authority? For example, in the first round Brighton at the home stadium made over Manchester City victory with a score of 2:1. Let's bet that the guests will play at the Etihad with dignity.