Liverpool Secure Dominant FA Cup Victory Over Brighton
Liverpool progressed smoothly into the fifth round of the FA Cup with a commanding 3-0 win against Brighton at Anfield on Saturday night. The Reds built on their recent away victory at Sunderland with a far more straightforward performance, controlling the match from start to finish.
Clinical Finishing Seals the Deal
After an early header from Cody Gakpo was disallowed for offside, Liverpool broke the deadlock just before halftime. Curtis Jones demonstrated impeccable timing to meet Milos Kerkez's cross, guiding the ball into the net with a deft touch off the underside of the bar. Brighton created two promising opportunities in the first half, but Diego Gomez's effort was comfortably saved by Alisson, while Jack Hinshelwood headed over from a corner.
The second half saw Liverpool extend their lead through a stunning team move. Mohamed Salah delivered a precise first-time pass to Dominik Szoboszlai, who unleashed a powerful finish past goalkeeper Jason Steele. Salah then added a third from the penalty spot after being fouled by Pascal Gross following a skillful dribble into the box.
Brighton substitute Rio Ngumoha had a curling effort ruled out for a marginal offside, but with no VAR available at this stage of the competition, the Seagulls found no reprieve. Liverpool manager Arne Slot watched his side ease into the next round with minimal fuss.
Key Talking Points from Anfield
1. Tactical Flexibility in Defence
Arne Slot's lineup initially suggested Szoboszlai would cover at right-back, but it was Curtis Jones who ultimately filled the role. Jones showcased the advantages of deploying a midfielder in defence, perfectly timing his run to evade Brighton's backline and convert Kerkez's delivery. His composed finish highlighted a versatility that has become a hallmark of Liverpool's squad this season.
2. Szoboszlai's Unmatched Influence
Dominik Szoboszlai has emerged as Liverpool's standout performer this campaign, offering remarkable consistency across multiple positions. His goal against Brighton exemplified his all-around abilities—combining athleticism, pinpoint passing, and clinical finishing. With ten goals and seven assists so far, the Hungarian midfielder continues to be a driving force for the Reds.
3. Salah's Steady Resurgence
Mohamed Salah may not yet be producing the explosive displays of his peak years, but his performance against Brighton indicated a gradual return to form. His assist for Szoboszlai's goal was executed with precision, and his dribbling to win the penalty recalled his most influential moments. Despite modest numbers this season, Salah's contributions remain vital as he quietly rebuilds his rhythm.
4. Brighton's Struggles Continue
Brighton arrived at Anfield with just one win in their last thirteen Premier League matches, increasing pressure on manager Fabian Hurzeler. Their FA Cup exit did little to alleviate concerns, as the Seagulls appeared both offensively blunt and defensively vulnerable. Reports suggest Hurzeler retains internal support for now, but with the team languishing in 14th place, his future remains uncertain.
5. FA Cup Emerges as Liverpool's Priority
With Liverpool sitting sixth in the Premier League and their title defence effectively over, the FA Cup represents a clear path to silverware this season. While tougher tests await in later rounds, this competition could offer the Reds their best chance of glory, potentially ending their Wembley drought in the world's oldest cup competition since 2022.
