Liverpool strike early to secure vital Brighton win as Ekitike delivers again
Liverpool recorded a much-needed Premier League victory over Brighton at Anfield, edging a lively contest that ultimately hinged on Hugo Ekitike’s sharp finishing and a timely contribution from Mohamed Salah. In a season that has threatened to drift, this felt like a stabilising afternoon for Arne Slot’s side, built on efficiency rather than control.
The defining moment arrived almost immediately. Within 46 seconds, Liverpool were ahead, Ekitike capitalising on Brighton’s failure to clear their lines. A simple header from Joe Gomez dropped perfectly into the striker’s path and, with minimal fuss, the Frenchman applied the finish. It was the fastest Premier League goal of the campaign and an early release of tension around Anfield.
From that point, Liverpool were able to play with a measure of clarity that has often been absent in recent weeks. Brighton, though, were far from overawed and repeatedly tested a Liverpool defence that has been patched together amid injuries and suspensions.
Ekitike impact underlines Liverpool’s attacking plan
Ekitike’s performance went beyond his early goal. Leading the line with intelligence and movement, he consistently occupied Brighton’s centre-backs and offered an outlet for Liverpool’s counter-attacks. On several occasions, quick transitions involving Florian Wirtz and Alexis Mac Allister released Ekitike into space, with one first-half effort drifting narrowly wide and another forcing Brighton into emergency defending.
Liverpool’s attacking approach was notably direct. Rather than extended spells of possession, Slot’s side looked to exploit Brighton’s high line whenever possible. That strategy paid off again shortly after the hour mark, when Salah’s introduction shifted the balance decisively.
The winger, restored after a period on the sidelines, delivered an immediate impact. From a corner on the right, his delivery found Ekitike arriving at the back post. The header was authoritative, planted beyond Bart Verbruggen to double Liverpool’s lead and underline the growing understanding between the two forwards.
Brighton pressure tests Liverpool resilience
Despite falling two goals behind, Brighton did not retreat. Fabian Hürzeler’s side enjoyed prolonged spells of possession in the second half and created chances that suggested a comeback was plausible. Kaoru Mitoma, introduced from the bench, added urgency down the left, while Yankuba Minteh and Georginio Rutter both threatened with direct running.
Alisson Becker was required to intervene decisively, most notably racing from his line to deny Diego Gomez after a clever reverse pass. Liverpool’s central defenders, Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, were also heavily involved, repelling a series of crosses and second balls as Brighton committed numbers forward.
Statistically, Brighton edged the contest in terms of possession after the interval, but Liverpool remained composed when it mattered. Crucially, they limited Brighton to half-chances, with several efforts flashing wide or striking the side-netting.
Slot management and Salah return prove decisive
The match also highlighted Slot’s in-game management. Forced into reshuffles due to injuries, Liverpool nevertheless maintained their structure. The reintroduction of Salah, initially unexpected, provided both quality and calm in key moments, while substitutions late on added defensive security as Brighton pushed.
For Liverpool, this was only a third Premier League win in 11 matches, but it carried weight beyond the points. Ekitike’s brace reinforced confidence in the club’s summer recruitment, while Salah’s influence served as a reminder of his enduring importance.
Brighton depart Anfield frustrated but encouraged by their approach play. Liverpool, meanwhile, can look at this performance as a foundation rather than a solution — but after recent turbulence, any sense of direction will be welcomed.
