Liverpool reclaims Premier League top spot with Brighton win

Liverpool made significant progress in the Premier League title race on Saturday, reclaiming the top spot after a tight 2-1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield. The win, combined with slip-ups from rivals Manchester City and Arsenal, made for an ideal outcome for Arne Slot's side. Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah were the heroes of the day, scoring the crucial goals that turned the game in Liverpool’s favor.

Verbruggen shines early, Kadioglu strikes first

Liverpool started the match with high energy, but Brighton's Bart Verbruggen was quick to make his mark, denying Darwin Núñez’s well-placed shot in the 10th minute. Brighton capitalized on their defensive solidity and struck first in the 18th minute. Ferdi Kadioglu, with a sharp finish off the inside of the post, put Brighton ahead, stunning the Anfield crowd. Brighton continued to press after their goal, coming close to doubling their lead with a volley from Kadioglu and a Danny Welbeck free kick that found the side netting. Liverpool, on the other hand, struggled to create significant chances during the first half and went into the break trailing.

Liverpool’s second-half comeback

The second half saw Liverpool increase the tempo and create more opportunities. Joe Gomez’s header lacked the power to challenge Verbruggen, while Virgil van Dijk missed an opportunity just yards from the goal. Salah, too, was frustrated after his chip was saved brilliantly by Verbruggen. In the 70th minute, Liverpool finally found their breakthrough. A cross from Cody Gakpo, which seemed destined for a teammate, ended up sneaking past everyone and finding the back of the net at the far post. Verbruggen, rooted to the spot, could do nothing to stop it. Just two minutes later, Liverpool struck again. Mohamed Salah, finding space from distance, unleashed a powerful shot that sailed into the net, turning the game on its head.

Brighton’s late push falls short

Brighton pushed hard in the closing stages to salvage a point, but Liverpool’s defense held firm. The win marked Liverpool’s second victory over Brighton in the same week, following a 3-2 triumph in the League Cup.

Arne Slot’s side now sits at the top of the Premier League table with 22 points from nine matches, a point ahead of Manchester City. “It was a perfect day,” Slot said post-match. “The first half was tough, but turning it around and hearing City lost made this even more satisfying.” Liverpool now looks to build on this momentum as they continue their quest for the Premier League title.