The Amex Stadium erupted in jubilation as Jack Hinshelwood struck a dramatic late winner to complete Brighton’s sensational comeback against Premier League champions Liverpool. The thrilling 3-2 victory breathes life into the Seagulls’ hopes of European qualification and leaves Arne Slot’s Reds still searching for their first win since clinching the title.
Roller-Coaster Contest Serves Up Five-Goal Spectacle
On a sun-drenched afternoon on the south coast, both teams delivered a pulsating encounter worthy of the Premier League’s entertainment reputation. Liverpool started with the swagger of champions, taking an early lead through Harvey Elliott’s composed finish after brilliant build-up play involving Mohamed Salah and Conor Bradley.
Brighton refused to be overawed, though, and struck back through Yasin Ayari’s cool finish after the young midfielder ghosted through Liverpool’s defence like it wasn’t there. The champions regained their advantage just before half-time when Dominik Szoboszlai’s audacious effort – was it a shot or a cross? – bamboozled keeper Bart Verbruggen and nestled in the far corner.
“We showed tremendous character today,” beamed Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler. “To come from behind twice against the champions shows the mentality we’ve built in this squad.”
Salah’s Shocking Miss Opens Door for Brighton’s Brilliance
The moment that will haunt Liverpool came when Mohamed Salah, making his 300th Premier League appearance, somehow contrived to miss an open goal that would have killed the contest. The Egyptian superstar, usually so clinical, scuffed his effort wide from point-blank range after Cody Gakpo had served the chance on a silver platter.
Brighton seized their lifeline with both hands. Super-sub Kaoru Mitoma levelled matters with a thumping finish after Alisson parried Danny Welbeck’s initial effort. With momentum swinging dramatically in the Seagulls’ favour, it was another replacement who delivered the knockout blow.
Jack Hinshelwood, the 19-year-old homegrown hero, chose the perfect moment to send the Amex into delirium, slamming home the winner with just five minutes remaining. Cue wild celebrations from players, staff, and supporters alike as Brighton’s European dream lives on.
European Dream Complicated But Still Alive
The victory propels Brighton into eighth place, but their path to European competition remains as tangled as a Premier League VAR decision. Crystal Palace’s shock FA Cup triumph over Manchester City has thrown an unexpected spanner in the works for their bitter rivals.
For the Seagulls to taste European football next season, they must remain in eighth and hope that either Chelsea finish seventh and defeat Real Betis in the Conference League final, or Newcastle slide out of the top six.
“We can only control what’s in our hands,” said Hinshelwood after his match-winning heroics. “We’ve given ourselves a chance going into the final day, and that’s all we could ask for.”
Champions’ Hangover Continues
For Liverpool, this marked a third game without victory since being crowned champions on April 27th. The Reds, who received a guard of honour before kick-off (much to the displeasure of some home supporters), have lost their edge since securing the title.
With Trent Alexander-Arnold left on the bench ahead of his anticipated summer departure, Liverpool’s defensive solidity deserted them in crucial moments. Arne Slot’s men have now conceded eight goals in their three post-title matches, suggesting the celebrations might have taken their toll.
“We lacked concentration at key moments,” admitted Slot. “When you’re playing against a team with Brighton’s quality, you can’t switch off defensively and expect to get away with it.”
The result keeps Liverpool’s otherwise remarkable away scoring record intact – they’ve now netted in every Premier League road game this season, a first in the club’s illustrious history.
Brighton now head to Tottenham on Sunday knowing victory is essential if they’re to have any chance of European qualification. For Liverpool, the season concludes with the chance to give their adoring Anfield faithful one final celebration before the summer rebuild begins.
