Kaoru Mitoma scored in stoppage time as Brighton knocked holders Liverpool out of
the FA Cup with an impressive victory at the American Express Community Stadium
With the game heading to a draw, Japan winger Mitoma produced a great piece of
control before firing in from close range to stun the Reds.
Jurgen Klopp’s side, who were beaten 3-0 at the Seagulls two weeks ago, took the lead
midway through the first half when Harvey Elliott slotted into the bottom corner
from Mohamed Salah’s pass following a quick break.
However, Brighton equalised when Tariq Lamptey’s shot from distance deflected
heavily off Lewis Dunk to fly into the back of the net.
It looked like a replay at Anfield would be needed to decide the tie before Mitoma
stepped up to snatch another big result for Brighton.
It is testament to the impressive work done by Seagulls boss Roberto de Zerbi since
his appointment that you couldn’t say with a degree of certainty which side was the
favourite heading into this match.
Liverpool won the FA Cup last season but have endured a difficult campaign and went
into this game as the side lower in the Premier League table – they are ninth while
Brighton are sixth.
The hosts impressively outplayed the Reds on 14 January and clearly fancied their
chances of another victory against them as they showed belief and confidence in this
game.
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Great defending by Dunk prevented what looked to be a certain goal for Salah early
on, while Evan Ferguson then had a shot cleared off the line by Trent Alexander-
Arnold.
The hosts stepped it up after the break and got their reward for another hard-working
display with Mitoma’s late winner, although the home fans’ celebrations were delayed
as a possible offside was checked by the video assistant referee before the goal was
given.
Mitoma is the latest star to rise at Brighton, who continue to impress despite losing
Leandro Trossard to Arsenal earlier this month and with Moises Caicedo left out of
this game following a bid from the Gunners.
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