Danny Welbeck scored twice for Brighton and Hove Albion as they sealed a dramatic 2-1 win over Liverpool in Saturday’s Premier League early kickoff clash, dashing the Premier League champions top-four hopes.
The 35-year-old responded to his omission from Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for March friendly games against Japan and Uruguay with a stunning performance that helped his side to victory.
It also marked a 10th league defeat for Liverpool, with Arne Slot already under intense pressure after a disappointing campaign so far.
The Premier League champions were without goalkeeper Alisson and talisman Mohamed Salah for the clash and are now winless in their last three league games, losing two and recording one draw.
Kickoff was delayed by 15 minutes after a road traffic accident and the visitors were dealt a major blow minutes after the start as Hugo Ekitike was forced off after a collision with James Milner.
Welbeck then put Brighton in front as Brighton capitalized on a mistake at the back by Ibrahima Konate to take the lead after a quick throw.
However, Liverpool grabbed their equalizer after another mistake in the game, this time by Lewis Dunk which allowed Milos Kerkez to produce a superb finish past Bart Verbruggen.
Welbeck doubled his tally and put Brighton back in front in the second half, with the goal surviving a VAR review.
Cosy Gakpo was then denied by Verbruggen, before Brighton were also denied another chance to add to their tally in the clash.
The game ended 2-1 in favour of the home side, as they moved back into eighth on the standings after recording their fifth win in five matches.
Liverpool meanwhile, could end the match-day in sixth if Chelsea defeat Everton later in the day, dashing their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League next season.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
