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Introduction
Liverpool’s final away match of the 2024-25 Premier League season ended in a dramatic 3-2 defeat at the hands of Brighton & Hove Albion on Monday night. Despite taking the lead twice through Harvey Elliott and Dominik Szoboszlai, Arne Slot’s side couldn’t hold on as Brighton’s substitutes Kaoru Mitoma and Jack Hinshelwood inspired a late comeback to seal all three points at the Amex Stadium.
This defeat marked just Liverpool’s third loss of the league campaign and put a dent in what has otherwise been a memorable season crowned with the Premier League title. Let’s take a closer look at the key moments from a thrilling night on the south coast.
Line-up Highlights: Chiesa Makes First Premier League Start
Arne Slot made four changes to the side that beat Arsenal in their previous outing. Federico Chiesa was handed his first-ever Premier League start, lining up alongside Kostas Tsimikas, Jarell Quansah, and Harvey Elliott. The rest of the team included Alisson in goal, with a backline of Tsimikas, Quansah, and Conor Bradley. The midfield trio featured Ryan Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, and Elliott, while Salah, Gakpo, and Chiesa spearheaded the attack.
Lightning Start: Elliott Puts Liverpool Ahead Early
The Reds burst out of the blocks in typical fashion, nearly taking the lead inside the first minute when Cody Gakpo curled narrowly wide. Moments later, Mohamed Salah tested Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen with a low shot.
Their persistence paid off just nine minutes in. A sensational crossfield switch from Szoboszlai found Salah, who cushioned a slick flick into the path of the marauding Bradley. The full-back beat two challenges before squaring for Elliott to finish clinically.
That goal carried historical significance it meant Liverpool became the first team in club history to score in every away league match in a single Premier League season.
Brighton Fight Back: Ayari Levels the Score
Despite Liverpool’s dominance, Brighton slowly grew into the game. Danny Welbeck missed a decent chance just past the half-hour mark, heading Adingra’s delivery wide.
But the Seagulls made no mistake with their next opportunity. Brajan Gruda played a sharp one-two with Welbeck and slipped a perfectly weighted pass through to Yasin Ayari. The Brighton midfielder calmly slotted past Alisson to make it 1-1 in the 32nd minute.
Szoboszlai’s Moment of Magic Before the Break
Just when it seemed both teams would head into the break on level terms, Liverpool struck again in stoppage time. A cleverly executed free-kick routine saw Elliott play the ball short to Szoboszlai out wide. The Hungarian midfielder didn’t hesitate he struck a looping effort that left Verbruggen rooted to the spot as it sailed into the top corner.
It was a moment of brilliance and a testament to Slot’s tactical acumen, catching Brighton off guard just before halftime.
Second-Half Showdown: End-to-End Action
The second half kicked off with Brighton showing real intent. Alisson was called into action early, producing key saves to deny Welbeck twice and Gruda.
Liverpool should have capitalized during a promising spell, with Salah, Gakpo, and Elliott all spurning chances that could have extended their lead. The most glaring miss came from Salah, who swept wide from six yards after a perfectly placed cutback from Gakpo.
Mitoma’s Impact: Brighton Draw Level Again
Those missed opportunities proved costly. Just after the hour mark, Mitoma introduced as a substitute found himself in the right place at the right time. Alisson had done well to parry a powerful effort from Welbeck, but the rebound fell kindly to the Japanese winger, who fired the ball into the ground and beyond the keeper to make it 2-2.
It was a goal that ignited the home crowd and gave Brighton the momentum heading into the final stages.
Late VAR Drama: Hinshelwood Nets the Winner
With the match wide open, a winner seemed inevitable. Both sides pressed forward in search of a decisive goal, and it arrived in the 85th minute for the hosts.
Matt O’Riley, another impactful substitute, broke through Liverpool’s defense and squared the ball for Hinshelwood to tap home with his very first touch. Initial celebrations were muted as the assistant referee raised his flag for offside. However, after a lengthy VAR check, replays confirmed that O’Riley was just onside when he made the pass, and the goal was allowed to stand.
It was a heartbreaking blow for Liverpool, who had looked set to at least take a point back to Merseyside.
What the Result Means for Liverpool
Although the Premier League title is already secured, this result serves as a timely reminder that no game in the English top flight can be taken for granted. The Reds’ unbeaten run on the road came to an end, but their performance especially in attack showed why they’ve been so formidable this season.
Federico Chiesa’s Premier League debut offered glimpses of promise, and Elliott’s continued development was again on display with a goal and an assist. The return of Alisson between the sticks also proved crucial in keeping Liverpool in the match for so long.
With one more game remaining at Anfield to close out the 2024-25 campaign, Slot will be eager to see his side bounce back and finish on a high note in front of the home fans.
Conclusion
Despite the loss, the clash at the Amex was a Premier League classic full of attacking flair, tactical intrigue, and individual brilliance. Brighton deserve full credit for their resilience and the impact of their substitutes, who ultimately turned the tide of the game.
For Liverpool, there were plenty of positives to take, but also a few lessons to reflect on. Defensive organization in the closing stages and converting key chances will be areas to sharpen heading into next season.
Nevertheless, with the league title wrapped up and exciting talents like Elliott, Bradley, and Chiesa coming to the fore, the future under Arne Slot looks bright.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com