Liverpool Ease Past Brighton 3-0 to Reach FA Cup Fifth Round | OneFootball

Liverpool 3-0 Brighton: FA Cup Progress Sealed at Anfield

Liverpool marched into the FA Cup fifth round with authority, dispatching Brighton 3-0 at Anfield in a performance that blended control, craft and clinical finishing. Mohamed Salah’s influence proved decisive, scoring once and providing an assist as Arne Slot’s side underlined their intent to compete strongly in the competition.

After a testing run of fixtures, Liverpool produced a display full of energy and attacking cohesion, offering encouragement that momentum is building again as the season enters a crucial phase.

Jones Breaks Deadlock Before Interval

Brighton began brightly, moving the ball with confidence and probing Liverpool’s defensive shape. Fabian Hurzeler’s side, despite a difficult run of form, showed early ambition and forced Liverpool to settle quickly.

Slot’s men responded by gradually imposing themselves in midfield, with Curtis Jones adapting well to an unfamiliar right back role. Making his first start since 17 January, Jones delivered a composed and intelligent performance.

The breakthrough arrived in the 42nd minute. Milos Kerkez advanced down the flank and whipped in a teasing cross. Jones timed his run expertly, guiding his finish beyond Jason Steele to give Liverpool a deserved lead heading into the interval.

Brighton had chances to respond. Alisson produced a sharp save from Diego Gomez, while Lewis Dunk went close either side of half time, but Liverpool’s defensive organisation held firm.

Photo: IMAGO

Szoboszlai Finishes Flowing Move

Liverpool’s second goal encapsulated their growing fluency. In the 56th minute, a sweeping move carved Brighton open and demonstrated the cohesion Slot continues to build within his side.

Virgil van Dijk initiated the attack, finding Cody Gakpo, who switched play intelligently. Salah’s touch was exquisite, cushioning the ball into Dominik Szoboszlai’s path. The Hungarian midfielder did the rest, thumping home emphatically for his 10th goal of the campaign.

It was a goal born from rhythm, precision and confidence, traits Liverpool are rediscovering at a pivotal moment.

Salah Seals Comfortable Victory

Brighton attempted to respond with attacking changes, but Liverpool’s control rarely wavered. The contest was effectively settled ten minutes after Szoboszlai’s strike.

Salah, lively throughout, embarked on a dazzling run into the penalty area before being bundled over by Pascal Gross. The Egypt forward stepped up and rifled his penalty into the top corner, registering his seventh goal of the season and putting the tie beyond doubt.

His contribution, both creative and clinical, reinforced his enduring importance within Liverpool’s attacking structure.

Photo: IMAGO

There was still late drama. Youngster Rio Ngumoha thought he had added a fourth with a delightful curling finish after coming off the bench. Celebrations were cut short by an offside flag, with replays suggesting the decision was tight.

With no VAR in operation until the fifth round of the FA Cup, the 17 year old was left unfortunate not to mark his cameo with a goal.

Momentum Builds Under Slot

Liverpool’s response to recent setbacks has been impressive. Defeat to Manchester City last weekend was followed by victory at Sunderland in midweek, and this FA Cup triumph over Brighton continues that upward curve.

Slot resisted wholesale rotation, signalling the importance placed on cup progress. The balance between experience and emerging talent was evident, while Liverpool’s pressing and attacking transitions looked increasingly sharp.

For Brighton, the defeat compounds a difficult spell. Having won only two of their past 15 matches, Hurzeler faces the challenge of restoring belief and cutting edge in the final third.

Liverpool, meanwhile, advance with confidence. Anfield witnessed a performance that married professionalism with attacking verve, and as the FA Cup journey continues, belief will only strengthen.