Liverpool Legend Dominates Brighton as Reds Storm Into FA Cup Next Round

Liverpool cruised to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday night, securing their place in the FA Cup fifth round without breaking a sweat.

While Arne Slot's team didn't launch an immediate attacking barrage, they were clearly superior to a lackluster Brighton squad that appeared disjointed throughout. Curtis Jones converted a Milos Kerkez delivery late in the opening period, setting Liverpool on course for victory.

Dominik Szoboszlai sealed the win for Liverpool with a well-executed finish that capped off excellent build-up play, as the home team's control intensified after the break. With the match effectively decided, the now-energized Reds added a third goal through Mohamed Salah.

Liverpool's second-half excellence provided flashes of the championship-winning team from the previous campaign. While defending their Premier League title may seem unlikely at this stage, the Reds should certainly be viewed as serious contenders for FA Cup success.

The Moment That Defined The Match

The Moment That Defined The Match

The first 40 minutes produced virtually no meaningful action in either penalty box, with both teams managing only two shots on target between them. With the contest mired in mediocrity, Liverpool's makeshift fullback pairing of Milos Kerkez and Curtis Jones collaborated to break the stalemate and spark the rout.

Kerkez had already demonstrated his offensive threat with several menacing deliveries, but 42 minutes in, Jones boldly charged into the area and was perfectly positioned to convert a driven cross from the Hungarian, netting his maiden goal for the Reds in his 57th appearance.

Jones's strike completely transformed Liverpool, who then controlled proceedings emphatically against a Brighton team that had no response. Previously tentative Liverpool players suddenly came alive, and Slot's squad relished the second half.

Among a squad packed with talented attackers, it was the unlikely fullback partnership of Kerkez and Jones that broke open a previously sterile encounter, propelling Liverpool toward a commanding victory.

Liverpool Player Ratings vs. Brighton (4-2-3-1)

Liverpool Player Ratings vs. Brighton (4-2-3-1)

*Ratings provided by FotMob*

GK: Alisson—8.1: His signature long passes were inconsistent and he was fortunate they didn't lead to dangerous counter-attacks. His services were rarely required, but he still made several key saves to preserve the shutout.

RB: Curtis Jones—8.1: Playing out of position at right-back, the academy product displayed remarkable adaptability, appearing solid defensively while scoring the opener with an intelligent run into the box.

CB: Ibrahima Konaté—7.0: Had a relatively quiet evening as Brighton posed minimal threat to Liverpool's defense, but he managed his duties with composure.

CB: Virgil van Dijk—7.3: A dominant display from Liverpool's captain. The Dutch defender was in total command throughout, stepping in decisively to thwart opposition attacks.

LB: Milos Kerkez—7.8: Solid defensively while contributing several promising forward surges, nearly finding the net himself and consistently reaching the touchline to deliver crosses, including the assist for Jones's goal.

DM: Dominik Szoboszlai—8.4: Dependable as always in the middle of the park. His passing was precise and he frequently orchestrated his team's offensive moves, particularly in transition. Capped another excellent showing with a powerful strike that secured the result.

DM: Alexis Mac Allister—8.1: The Argentine was somewhat underwhelming once more, struggling to influence the game significantly, appearing hesitant and choosing conservative options when in possession.

RW: Mohamed Salah—9.1: Against Brighton, Salah was truly "running down the wing," appearing at his peak form. Overwhelmed Ferdi Kadıoğlu, provided an excellent assist and converted a penalty he earned.

AM: Florian Wirtz—6.8: The German started brightly but his impact diminished significantly after the early stages. He was sloppy with his passing and went through extended periods without touching the ball.

LW: Cody Gakpo—7.3: Another disappointing outing from the winger that won't help silence the mounting criticism he's facing.

ST: Federico Chiesa—6.4: Looked uncomfortable in the striker role and frequently drifted back to midfield just to get involved. Made little attacking contribution in an overall subdued performance.

SUB: Joe Gomez (71' for Wirtz)—6.1: Made an important block on a dangerous effort shortly after entering the game.

SUB: Hugo Ekitike (77' for Chiesa)—5.8: Managed just seven touches during his short stint.

SUB: Rio Ngumoha (77' for Salah)—6.0: Will be disappointed that VAR wasn't operational after a good finish was incorrectly ruled out for a non-existent offside.

SUB: Calvin Ramsey (89' for Gakpo)—N/A

SUB: Trey Nyoni (89' for Jones—NA

Subs not used: Giorgi Mamardashvili (GK), Kieran Morrison, Andrew Robertson, Ryan Gravenberch.

What the Ratings Tell Us

What the Ratings Tell Us

The Numbers That Explain Liverpool's Easy Win

The Numbers That Explain Liverpool's Easy Win