Liverpool 3-0 Brighton: FA Cup progress continues at Anfield
Liverpool moved smoothly into the FA Cup fifth round with a confident 3-0 victory over Brighton at Anfield, delivering a performance that blended control, patience and clinical finishing. Arne Slot’s side responded well after recent setbacks, showing clarity in possession and a sharper edge in key moments, qualities that continue to define Liverpool’s campaign across competitions.
Brighton arrived hoping to disrupt the rhythm early on and for a short spell they managed to make the contest uncomfortable. Yet once Liverpool settled, the outcome began to feel inevitable, with decisive contributions from Curtis Jones, Dominik Szoboszlai and Mohamed Salah steering the FA Cup tie firmly in the hosts’ favour.
Fast start fades as Liverpool seize control
Brighton made the brighter opening, pressing high and forcing Liverpool into a cautious start. Fabian Hurzeler’s side created early pressure, but without turning promising moments into goals the momentum slowly drifted away. Liverpool, calm and structured, grew into the match and began to stretch the visitors through wide areas.
The breakthrough came in the 42nd minute when Curtis Jones finished smartly from Milos Kerkez’s delivery. The goal shifted the mood inside Anfield and allowed Liverpool to dictate the tempo going into half time. Brighton still carried threat, particularly through quick transitions, but Alisson’s composure ensured the Reds kept their advantage intact.
Szoboszlai and Salah settle FA Cup tie
If the first half required patience, the second half delivered efficiency. Liverpool doubled their lead in the 56th minute through Dominik Szoboszlai, who capped a sweeping team move after being teed up by Salah. The sequence highlighted Liverpool’s fluency, with precise passing opening Brighton’s defensive lines before the emphatic finish.
Salah’s influence continued to grow and ten minutes later he added Liverpool’s third from the penalty spot after a driving run forced a foul in the box. His strike into the top corner effectively ended Brighton’s hopes and underlined his importance since returning to the starting line up. Liverpool’s control from that point forward reflected a team comfortable with both the ball and the occasion.
Brighton struggles continue at Anfield
Brighton’s recent form has been uneven and this FA Cup defeat extended a difficult run. They threatened in phases, particularly either side of half time, but a lack of sharpness in front of goal proved costly. Liverpool’s defensive organisation limited clear openings, while moments of hesitation allowed the hosts to regain control whenever pressure built.
Hurzeler attempted to reshape the match with substitutions, yet Liverpool’s structure remained solid. A late disallowed effort from Rio Ngumoha added a hint of controversy, especially with no VAR in operation at this stage of the FA Cup, leaving the youngster unfortunate not to mark his appearance with a goal.
Momentum building for fifth round
For Liverpool, progression in the FA Cup adds another layer to a season already shaped by ambition and resilience. Slot’s side balanced squad continuity with tactical flexibility, a sign of confidence within the group as they navigate a busy schedule. Brighton, meanwhile, must rediscover consistency if they are to reverse their current trajectory.
As attention turns towards the fifth round draw, Liverpool supporters will view this result as another step towards silverware. The 3-0 scoreline reflected more than just finishing power, it showcased composure, organisation and a growing sense that this Liverpool team knows exactly how to manage big moments in knockout football.
