Brighton & Hove Albion and Liverpool face off twice within days, beginning with an EFL Cup fourth-round clash at the Amex Stadium. This encounter not only sets the stage for their subsequent Premier League meeting but also offers a preview of two distinct managerial styles clashing in a high-stakes contest.
Liverpool enters the fixture fresh off a commanding 5-1 victory over West Ham United in the previous EFL Cup round, showcasing their attacking prowess. Brighton, meanwhile, edged out a thrilling 3-2 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers, setting up a fascinating match against the reigning champions.
Match Preview
Liverpool’s dominance in the EFL Cup continues as they aim to retain the title they secured last season. Their journey began in style with a 5-1 triumph over West Ham, a result reminiscent of their performance in last season’s quarter-finals against the same opposition. Under new manager Arne Slot, the Reds have enjoyed a resurgence, blending aggressive pressing and technical brilliance. Slot’s men are unbeaten in the competition since December 2022, and their recent eight-game winning streak across all competitions further underlines their momentum.
However, Liverpool’s perfect away record under Slot was blemished last weekend with a 2-2 draw against Arsenal. Twice coming from behind, they salvaged a point at the Emirates, signaling resilience despite losing their place at the top of the Premier League to Manchester City. While the title race is heating up, Liverpool’s attention now shifts to the EFL Cup, a competition that has seen them follow a curious pattern: exiting at the fourth round in alternate seasons before going on to win it the next.
Brighton, led by Fabian Hurzeler, enters the contest on the back of a frustrating 2-2 draw against Wolves. Despite goals from Danny Welbeck and Evan Ferguson, the Seagulls let a two-goal lead slip, conceding a last-minute equalizer that left them ruing missed opportunities. Brighton’s inconsistency in recent weeks has been a concern, but they possess a squad capable of producing exciting football, especially with Hurzeler’s attacking philosophy.
The Seagulls’ recent history in the EFL Cup, however, has not been favorable. They have been knocked out at the fourth-round stage in five consecutive seasons, failing to progress beyond this point since their quarter-final appearance in the 1978-79 campaign. Nonetheless, their strong record at the Amex against Liverpool offers hope. Brighton are unbeaten in their last three home matches against the Reds, including a 2-1 FA Cup victory in January 2023, although Liverpool exacted revenge with a 2-1 win at Anfield in March 2024.
Team News
Brighton & Hove Albion
Hurzeler faces some selection challenges with injuries affecting key players. Defensive vulnerabilities have been exposed in recent matches, and Brighton may need to rotate given the proximity of their upcoming Premier League encounter with Liverpool. Key figures such as Kaoru Mitoma and Solly March could be rested or come off the bench, with Pervis Estupiñán also doubtful for the cup tie. The team may rely on younger talents like Julio Enciso and Evan Ferguson to lead the line, while experienced heads such as Lewis Dunk will be crucial in organizing the backline.
Liverpool
Arne Slot may also be tempted to rotate his squad ahead of the Premier League clash with Brighton. With depth in attack and midfield, players such as Darwin Núñez, Cody Gakpo, and Harvey Elliott could be given starting roles. The Reds might rest senior players like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk for the weekend, but Slot will still expect intensity from the squad. The midfield trio of Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Curtis Jones may get minutes to further develop their chemistry. Caoimhin Kelleher is likely to feature in goal as the cup goalkeeper, while the defense could see opportunities for Kostas Tsimikas and Joe Gomez.
Tactical Preview
Brighton’s possession-based approach under Hurzeler emphasizes quick transitions and attacking width. The Seagulls will aim to exploit Liverpool’s high line with fast breaks, particularly through Ferguson and Enciso. However, their defense has shown vulnerabilities, especially in dealing with aerial threats and set pieces. Maintaining composure in key moments will be essential to prevent another late collapse.
Liverpool’s tactics under Slot have evolved, with a focus on high pressing, vertical passing, and dynamic movement in attack. Slot’s side often seeks to overload central areas before spreading the play wide, creating numerous scoring opportunities. The midfield’s energy will be key in disrupting Brighton’s build-up, while the pace of Liverpool’s forwards can stretch the Seagulls’ defense. With Brighton prone to errors under pressure, the Reds will likely aim to press aggressively from the outset.
Prediction
Both teams are expected to rotate heavily, but the depth and experience of Liverpool’s squad could make the difference. While Brighton will look to make home advantage count, the Seagulls’ recent defensive frailties may prove costly against a Liverpool side brimming with attacking options.
The outcome of this EFL Cup tie could set the tone for their upcoming Premier League meeting, with both teams eager to gain an edge. For Liverpool, progressing to the next round would keep their hopes of retaining the cup alive, while Brighton will aim to break their fourth-round curse and make a statement against the reigning champions.
