Brighton 2-1 Liverpool: Welbeck Brace Sinks Reds As Ekitike Sustains Injury

Despite the early setback, Liverpool responded through Milos Kerkez. The full-back reacted quickest to a defensive error from Lewis Dunk, who misjudged a header back to goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen. Kerkez capitalised, lifting a finish to level the score.

Defensive lapses prove costly

Brighton maintained pressure after the break and regained the lead through Welbeck. The forward tapped in from close range after Jack Hinshelwood broke in behind Liverpool’s defence and squared the ball across goal. The move raised brief offside appeals, but the goal stood.

Liverpool’s defensive pairing, including Virgil van Dijk, struggled to contain Brighton’s movement, with repeated lapses allowing the hosts to create clear opportunities.

The visitors pushed forward in search of an equaliser late on but lacked cutting edge in the final third. Brighton, meanwhile, continued to threaten, with Liverpool requiring a goal-line clearance from Curtis Jones to prevent further damage.

The defeat leaves Liverpool with growing concerns over consistency.