Brighton & Hove Albion Women staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Liverpool 3-2 in a thrilling Women's FA Cup semi-final on Sunday, securing their first-ever appearance at Wembley Stadium. Substitute Nadine Noordam scored a dramatic 95th-minute winner to spark wild celebrations for the visitors, who had trailed 2-0 early in the first half.
Liverpool's Dominant Start
The hosts began with purpose and took a deserved lead in the 11th minute. Ceri Holland delivered an unmarked cross from the left, and Denise O'Sullivan's angled header found the far corner. Liverpool doubled their advantage 11 minutes later when Brighton failed to clear their penalty area, allowing Beata Olsson to pounce on the loose ball and lash home on the turn. Alejandra Bernabé also struck the crossbar for Gareth Taylor's side.
Brighton's Fightback
Brighton pulled one back before halftime when a poorly defended corner allowed Manuela Vanegas to score from close range. The away side dominated the second half, applying relentless pressure on Liverpool's goal. Fran Kirby hit the woodwork shortly after the break, and the equalizer finally came when Kiko Seike's hanging cross from the right was met at the far post by Madison Haley, who nodded in.
Late Drama
Liverpool had a chance to regain the lead through Aurélie Csillag, but Brighton continued to press. Deep into stoppage time, Noordam fired in the winner, sending the traveling supporters into raptures. The victory was especially poignant for Brighton head coach Dario Vidosic, whose father Rado—the club's head of coaching for women and girls—died of cancer in January.
Historic Achievement
This was Brighton's third FA Cup semi-final in six seasons, having lost 3-2 at Manchester United in 2023 and 3-0 at Arsenal in 2021. They will face either Chelsea or Manchester City in the final on 31 May. Brighton arrived in St Helens on a six-match unbeaten run in all competitions, including an away win over Arsenal in the quarter-finals and a draw with Manchester City.
