Liverpool’s recent Premier League dominance took a hit with a 3-2 loss against Brighton at the Amex Stadium, marking their third consecutive game without a win since clinching the title. Despite a spirited start and early goal, thanks to a clever flick from Mohamed Salah setting up Conor Bradley’s assist for Harvey Elliott, the Reds couldn’t maintain their lead.
Bradley himself had a chance to double Liverpool’s advantage, but his indecisive effort sailed wide. Brighton, however, capitalized on their opportunities, with Yasin Ayari equalizing before halftime. Liverpool briefly regained the lead through a fortunate Dominik Szoboszlai cross that found the back of the net.
The second half saw a missed opportunity from Salah, a glaring miss with the goal gaping, and a crucial save by Alisson to deny Danny Welbeck. Despite substitutions from manager Arne Slot, it was Brighton’s substitutes who made the difference. Kaoru Mitoma scored shortly after entering the game, followed by Jack Hinshelwood’s goal, securing a 3-2 victory for the home side. This defeat leaves Liverpool with a maximum of 86 points, with their final game against Crystal Palace still to come.
While there were some positives, such as Federico Chiesa’s impressive debut and Liverpool’s fluid build-up play, the defensive lapses were evident. The team conceded several shots and appeared momentarily switched off for Brighton’s goals. Manager Arne Slot received a 6/10 rating for his team selection and tactical decisions. Player ratings varied, with Alisson performing well in goal, while Salah received a disappointing 5/10 for his subpar performance. The overall feeling is one of disappointment, but with the title already secured, the focus may now shift towards preparing for the next season.
Despite the loss, there were bright spots. New contract signing Conor Bradley impressed with a standout assist, while Dominik Szoboszlai and Harvey Elliott showed strong midfield cohesion. The introduction of Federico Chiesa also brought excitement, showcasing his skills in his first Premier League start. However, defensive vulnerabilities and individual errors cost Liverpool dearly, highlighting areas that need attention before the next campaign begins. The match ultimately served as a reminder that even champions can have off days, and that complacency can be a team’s worst enemy.
