Liverpool mounted an impressive second-half comeback at Anfield, securing a crucial win over Brighton to move to the top of the Premier League. With Manchester City stunned by Bournemouth and Arsenal losing at Newcastle, the Reds took full advantage of their rivals’ slip-ups, despite initially trailing at home. Ferdi Kadioglu’s first-half strike from outside the box had given Brighton a deserved lead, but Liverpool turned the match around in a thrilling second-half performance.
Brighton, aiming to capitalize on their strong first-half showing, took the lead after Kadioglu’s precise 16-yard shot hit the inside of the post and found the back of the net. The visitors continued to press, nearly doubling their lead when Georginio Rutter’s attempt was stopped by Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher. But after the break, Liverpool found momentum. Cody Gakpo’s left-wing cross evaded everyone and slipped straight into the net to bring Liverpool level—marking his third goal against Brighton in just four days after scoring a brace in the recent Carabao Cup match.
Just minutes after the equalizer, Mohamed Salah struck decisively, curling a right-footed effort into the far corner to put Liverpool ahead. The home crowd erupted, with Liverpool seizing control and rarely looking like they would relinquish the lead after Salah’s goal.
The win marked Liverpool’s 13th victory in 15 games under new manager Arne Slot, who has quickly turned the Reds into serious title contenders. The only blemish on his record so far came in a close defeat to Nottingham Forest, who now sit in third place. Despite Brighton’s energetic first-half performance, the hosts took charge in the second half, with seven attempts on target compared to just one in the opening 45 minutes.
Brighton, managed by 31-year-old Fabian Hurzeler—the youngest head coach in Premier League history—had shown flashes of brilliance and fully earned their early lead. But as Liverpool found their rhythm, Hurzeler’s side struggled to create opportunities, managing only one attempt on target after the break. Brighton’s dream of breaking into the title race took a hit, while Liverpool’s comeback showcased the resilience and quality that Slot’s team is becoming known for.
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