Kaoru Mitoma helped Brighton knock out FA Cup holders Liverpool by winning 2-1 in extra time of their Round 4 tie. The Seagulls had defeated Liverpool 3-0 only a couple of weeks ago, and managed to pick up the win yet again.
As expected, Brighton were without Moises Caicedo for the game. But, the absence of the midfielder did not affect the result that they got. Liverpool’s problems in midfield have been well documented this season. And they were exposed by the fluid play from Roberto De Zerbi’s side again.
Brighton defeat Liverpool in FA Cup tie
Harvey Elliott scored the opener for the Reds, assisted by Mohamed Salah. However, by the 39th minute, the two teams were back on level terms after Lewis Dunk equalised by tapping in Tariq Lamptey’s driven effort.
Fabinho was lucky to not be sent off, and could not believe his luck, after a very rash challenge on Evan Ferguson. He was almost walking off the pitch, but was surprisingly not shown a red by the referee.
The match seemed set for a replay at Anfield before Mitoma produced a brilliant piece of skill to launch a volley that beat Alisson. The Japanese has scored six goals across all competitions this season, and is proving himself as a really clutch player for the team this season.
With Leandro Trossard now at Arsenal, he will have more opportunities to prove himself. And with performances like these, he could be a top player in England for years to come.