Liverpool came from behind to defeat Brighton at a lively Anfield, moving to the top of the Premier League on a day when their two main title rivals both faced losses.
Brighton appeared poised to climb to third place after Ferdi Kadioglu’s impressive 16-yard strike found the net off the inside of the post during a dominant first half.
However, Liverpool equalized when Cody Gakpo’s cross from the left sailed directly into the goal—marking his third strike against Brighton in four days, following his Carabao Cup brace.
Just three minutes later, Mohamed Salah curled a stunning shot into the far corner from the right side of the box, completing the turnaround.
Brighton had been controlling the game well, even managing to quiet the Anfield crowd at times.
They might have extended their lead if not for Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, who saved a close effort from Georginio Rutter.
Under new manager Arne Slot, Liverpool have now won 13 of their 15 games, placing them two points ahead of Manchester City, who suffered a surprise loss to Bournemouth, while Arsenal were beaten by Newcastle.
Liverpool show character to keep momentum going
This was the second meeting between Liverpool and Brighton this week, following Liverpool’s 3-2 Carabao Cup victory at the Amex Stadium. However, with both teams making a combined 18 changes, that previous encounter held limited relevance here.
Cody Gakpo was the only Liverpool player to retain his place after scoring twice in their midweek win in Sussex.
Under manager Arne Slot, Liverpool have only suffered one defeat—at home against Nottingham Forest, who climbed to third after beating West Ham.
For much of the match, it seemed Liverpool might be heading for a second home defeat, as Brighton’s dominance kept the Anfield crowd subdued. Without a few crucial saves from goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, Liverpool could have been down by more than one goal.
The Reds improved significantly in the second half, recording seven shots on target compared to just one in the first.
Substitute Joe Gomez forced a save with a header shortly after halftime, and Virgil van Dijk missed a good opportunity with a mis-kick.
Mohamed Salah attempted a delicate chip over Brighton’s keeper, but it was saved due to a lack of contact.
Liverpool began to find their rhythm, and the breakthrough came when Gakpo’s cross bypassed everyone and found its way into the net. Though Darwin Nunez initially celebrated, replays confirmed he hadn’t made contact.
Salah once again emerged as the hero, delivering a trademark curling strike from the right to secure the lead.
After that, Liverpool rarely looked like losing their advantage, holding on for the win.
Much to be proud of for Brighton
For a time, it seemed Brighton could be entering the title conversation.
Fabian Hurzeler, the youngest permanent manager in Premier League history at just 31, has continued the excellent work of his predecessors, inspiring hopes of even greater achievements.
They fully deserved their lead when Danny Welbeck redirected Kaoru Mitoma’s cross to summer signing Kadioglu, who netted his first goal in English football.
Brighton had a golden chance to extend their advantage when Jack Hinshelwood set Rutter free, but he shot directly at goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher.
However, as Liverpool found their rhythm in the second half, Brighton became less effective in attack, managing only one shot on target after the break.