A rapid double from Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah lifted Liverpool to a 2-1 comeback victory over Brighton at Anfield, pushing the Reds to the top of the Premier League table. Arne Slot’s Brighton initially took control, with Ferdi Kadioglu scoring a well-executed opener just 13 minutes in after a 21-pass buildup—a testament to Brighton’s early dominance and slick play.
Still stinging from a midweek Carabao Cup loss to the same opponent, Brighton looked confident and controlled the early stages, consistently pressing Liverpool’s defense. Kadioglu’s goal was a clinical finish, giving Brighton an early lead and increasing their pressure on the Reds. Liverpool struggled to respond, finding themselves largely pinned back and unable to gain momentum. Just before the hour mark, Brighton came close to doubling their lead when Georginio Rutter broke through for a one-on-one with Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher, who made a crucial save to keep the Reds within striking distance.
Brighton continued to threaten Liverpool’s defense, nearly striking again as Kadioglu volleyed a cross from Kaoru Mitoma just over the bar. Adding to Liverpool’s early woes, Ibrahima Konate suffered a heavy fall from a corner just before halftime, requiring treatment and eventually leaving the pitch at the interval with his arm in a makeshift sling.
However, after the break, Liverpool shifted gears, finally finding rhythm in their passing and asserting themselves in Brighton’s half. Bart Verbruggen, in Brighton’s goal, became increasingly busy, saving a quick shot from Alexis Mac Allister shortly after the restart. Liverpool’s persistence paid off as Gakpo, fresh off his midweek scoring form, fired in the equalizer, and just minutes later, Salah delivered the winner with a curling strike.
Liverpool’s victory moves them two points clear at the top of the league, capitalizing on Manchester City’s loss to Bournemouth. Brighton’s defeat, meanwhile, leaves them just outside the top four in seventh place, narrowly missing a chance to rise in the standings.
