Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler has praised his players after the Seagulls launched their European campaign with a commanding 4-0 victory over Kauno Zalgiris at the Amex Stadium on Thursday.
The emphatic result offered Brighton a perfect start to their continental adventure, with Georginio stealing the spotlight after scoring twice in a performance that earned special recognition from the German tactician.
Hurzeler was particularly pleased with the forward’s contribution, using his brace to underline the importance of hard work on the training ground and the need for players to translate their efforts into match-day performances.
“It’s important that he proves himself and that he proves that if you’re good in training and create good habits in training, then the game shows the truth and reflects how you train and which performance you can bring on the pitch.”
The Brighton boss stressed that consistent improvement during training sessions remains essential for individual development and the team’s overall progress.
He believes Georginio’s display should provide the forward with a significant confidence boost while reinforcing the standards expected from every member of the squad.
“I think it’s very important that you always use every training session to get better. And then to use the match day to show it on the pitch, he’s a prime example of that. So hopefully this gives him belief, confidence in his quality and especially in his training sessions because this will be key for us – that every training session is on the highest level for every individual player and for us as a group.”
Beyond Georginio’s goalscoring exploits, Hurzeler highlighted the collective performance as one of the biggest positives from Brighton’s convincing victory.
The Seagulls combined attacking efficiency with defensive discipline to keep a clean sheet, while several players seized their opportunity to impress in front of the home supporters.
For Hurzeler, that balance could prove crucial as Brighton navigate the demands of domestic football and European competition. Having players capable of stepping up when required gives the manager greater flexibility and strengthens the team’s ability to cope with challenges throughout the season.
“I’m really pleased for Georgi, but in general also for the whole group. We showed a good performance, a very disciplined performance, a performance where we kept a clean sheet and a performance where a lot of players used their opportunities.”
The Brighton manager also emphasised the importance of building a squad in which every player can be trusted to deliver when called upon.
With a long campaign ahead, competition for places and consistent performances across the squad could become decisive factors in the club’s ambitions.
“And this will be key for the season – that we can really rely on each other, that we have players who step up in the right moment, who step up if we need them. I was very pleased with the performance.”
Brighton’s fourth goal provided another highlight, with Younes Ibrahim and Matt O’Riley combining effectively to complete the scoring and cap an impressive team display.
The 4-0 triumph gives Hurzeler plenty of encouragement as Brighton begin their European journey. Georginio’s brace, the clean sheet and the contributions of players taking their chances all offered evidence of a squad eager to meet the manager’s expectations.
While the opening victory represents an encouraging foundation, Hurzeler’s message was clear: Brighton must maintain their intensity in training, remain disciplined on the pitch and continue relying on the collective strength of the squad if they are to sustain their progress throughout the season.
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