Premier League Analysis: Liverpool 2-0 Brighton
Anfield – 13 December 2025
In this comprehensive post-match analysis, we unpack Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Premier League. We rely on official match data, verified statistics and factual insights to deliver an in-depth breakdown spanning tactical themes, statistical context, player performance and key moments that defined the contest.
Final Score & Key Facts
Liverpool secured an important 2-0 win against Brighton at Anfield, with French striker Hugo Ekitike scoring both goals. Ekitike’s brace included the fastest Premier League goal of the season after just 46 seconds, and a second strike from a Mohamed Salah corner early in the second half. Mohamed Salah returned to the Liverpool XI, entering the action due to a first-half injury to Joe Gomez. The victory lifts Liverpool to sixth in the Premier League standings while Brighton remain outside the top positions.
Official Match Statistics
| Statistic | Liverpool | Brighton |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 2 | 0 |
| Goals Scored | 2 (Ekitike x2) | 0 |
| Possession | 49.8% | 50.2% |
| Shots (Total) | 18 | 14 |
| Shots on Target | 4 | 1 |
| Yellow Cards | 1 | 2 |
| Corner Kicks | 2 | 2 |
| Saves | 1 | 2 |
These official figures show a balanced share of possession, but Liverpool’s efficiency in front of goal and superior shot quality made the decisive difference.
Tactical Overview
Liverpool’s Strategic Blueprint
Liverpool lined up in a flexible 4-2-3-1 system, aiming to exploit rapid transitions in wide and central areas. The early goal allowed the hosts to dictate tempo without forcing the issue, enabling a structured press when out of possession. Liverpool’s pressing was particularly effective in Brighton’s defensive third, where quick turnovers and vertical runs helped create concrete chances. Brighton rarely established sustained pressure, and Liverpool’s discipline prevented extended possession in dangerous zones.
Brighton’s Game Plan & Response
Brighton adopted a balanced 4-2-3-1 formation, seeking gradual build-ups and diagonal switches to open Liverpool’s compact defensive blocks. While they achieved parity in possession, Brighton struggled to turn possession into clear goal-scoring opportunities, recording just one shot on target. Their tactical intent was undermined by Liverpool’s early breakthrough and sustained defensive concentration, especially in the first 30 minutes. Brighton showed willingness to attack via wide channels, but finishing and control in the final third were limiting factors.
Goals & Key Phases
The first goal, arriving in the first minute, forced Brighton into a reactive stance, disrupting their initial tactical shape. Liverpool maintained control and managed the game effectively thereafter. The second goal, also from an attacking set-piece, highlighted Liverpool’s aerial threat and coordination in crowded areas. Brighton had intermittent possession of the ball, but clear breaks were minimal after the interval.
Player Performance Highlights
Liverpool Standouts
- Hugo Ekitike – The match-winner with a brace, including the season’s fastest Premier League goal and a well-taken second from a Salah corner. Ekitike’s movement and finishing efficiency were decisive.
- Mohamed Salah – Returned under emotional circumstances and provided the key assist for the second. His set-piece delivery underlined his experience and quality.
- Alisson Becker – Limited Brighton’s opportunities with a crucial early save and effective management of the defensive line.
- Dominic Szoboszlai – Provided stability between lines, linking midfield and attack with intelligent passes and defensive cover.
Brighton Key Performers
- Jan Paul van Hecke – Led defensive efforts with aerial duels and interceptions, although Brighton couldn’t prevent Liverpool’s set-piece success.
- Diego Gomez – Threatened with two significant chances that could have changed momentum, but was unable to convert.
- Verbruggen – Made important saves to maintain a respectable performance despite heavy pressure early in the match.
Statistical Insights
Analysing deeper trends reveals that Liverpool has been underperforming compared to their own high-tempo standards earlier in the season, but the 2-0 margin here reflects a more controlled performance. Brighton’s run without a win continued, and while the Seagulls had moments of promising possession, they lacked the clinical edge to threaten consistently. Liverpool’s clean sheet emphasises improved defensive cohesion in recent matches, an important factor as they seek to climb the table.
Conclusion & Implications
In summary, Liverpool’s 2-0 home win over Brighton was defined by an explosive early goal, effective management of possession, tactical discipline and clinical finishing from Hugo Ekitike, assisted by Mohamed Salah on his much-anticipated return. Brighton dominated spells of territorial play, but ultimately lacked the cutting edge to test Liverpool’s defence and goalkeeper consistently. This result not only earns Liverpool valuable Premier League points but also boosts confidence as they approach a congested festive schedule. For Brighton, this was a reminder of the fine margins at the top level and the need for sharper execution in the final third.
Overall, this performance highlights Liverpool’s resilience and capacity to respond under pressure, while Brighton must regroup and refine their attacking transitions to convert possession into goals more effectively.