Brighton & Hove Albion delivered a dramatic 3-2 victory over newly crowned Premier League champions Liverpool at the Amex Stadium in a result that keeps their hopes of European qualification alive heading into the final day of the season.
Liverpool took early control of the match, opening the scoring in the 11th minute through Harvey Elliott, who tapped in from close range after a sharp low delivery by Conor Bradley. The Reds looked comfortable in the opening exchanges, but Brighton grew into the game and were rewarded for their persistence just after the half-hour mark.
Yasin Ayari brought the hosts level in the 32nd minute, pouncing on a defensive lapse to slot past Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher. However, the visitors reclaimed the lead just before the break. A speculative delivery from Dominik Szoboszlai curled over Brighton’s Jason Steele and into the far corner, restoring Liverpool’s advantage in unusual fashion.
Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler turned to his bench in the second half, and the changes paid immediate dividends. Japanese winger Kaoru Mitoma equalized in the 69th minute, reacting quickest to a rebound after Danny Welbeck’s effort was parried. The Seagulls then completed the comeback in the dying minutes.
Substitute Jack Hinshelwood, just 20 years old, scored the winner in the 87th minute following a clever assist from Matt O’Riley. Though initially disallowed for offside, the goal was confirmed after a VAR review, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
The result lifts Brighton to eighth place in the table with 58 points, keeping them in contention for a spot in next season’s European competitions, pending results elsewhere. For Liverpool, already confirmed as league champions, the match served as a reminder of the competitive edge still present across the league. Jürgen Klopp’s side will conclude their campaign next week at Anfield, where they will be presented with the Premier League trophy after facing Crystal Palace.
