Salah's Resurgent Form Powers Liverpool to Dominant FA Cup Victory
Mohamed Salah emphatically announced his return to scintillating form with a commanding performance that propelled Liverpool to a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Brighton in the FA Cup fourth round at Anfield. The Egyptian superstar, whose future at the club had been shrouded in uncertainty during their previous encounter in December, delivered a decisive goal and sublime assist to underline his renewed importance to manager Arne Slot's plans.
Slot's Selection Gamble Pays Dividends
Liverpool manager Arne Slot admitted to experiencing sleepless nights while contemplating his team selection for this crucial cup fixture. Faced with the dilemma of resting overloaded players at risk of injury or fielding his strongest available side, Slot ultimately opted for the latter approach. His decision proved justified as Liverpool produced a professional display that contrasted sharply with last season's fourth-round shock exit against Plymouth.
The Dutch tactician made precautionary changes, leaving Hugo Ekitiké and Ryan Gravenberch out of the starting lineup, but otherwise deployed his most potent available weapons. With multiple injuries affecting his defensive options, Curtis Jones was deployed in an unfamiliar right-back role, while Joe Gomez was deemed insufficiently fit to start.
Patient Build-Up Yields Opening Breakthrough
The match began cautiously, with Liverpool requiring thirty minutes to discover their attacking urgency. Brighton initially enjoyed the better of the opening exchanges, displaying confidence in possession and pressing Liverpool's defense effectively under the guidance of under-pressure manager Fabian Hürzeler.
Liverpool's improvement gradually materialized, with Jones signaling their growing threat when his angled drive narrowly missed the top corner of Jason Steele's goal. The hosts finally broke through shortly before halftime through a well-worked move. After Charalampos Kostoulas inadvertently tackled Alexis Mac Allister, the ball found its way to Milos Kerkez on the left flank. The Hungarian full-back delivered a dangerous low cross into the six-yard box, where the arriving Jones side-footed home via the underside of the crossbar for his first goal of the season.
Second-Half Masterclass Seals Progression
Brighton responded positively to going behind, with Jack Hinshelwood wasting a golden opportunity to equalize when he headed over from close range. Goalkeeper Alisson then produced a crucial save in first-half stoppage time, denying Diego Gómez in a one-on-one situation after Jones had slipped in possession.
Liverpool effectively settled the contest with a moment of pure quality early in the second half. The home side's second goal showcased exceptional technique and vision, with Cody Gakpo's crossfield pass finding Salah, who in one fluid motion leapt into the air and cushioned the ball perfectly into the path of Dominik Szoboszlai. The Hungary captain didn't break stride, lashing an emphatic first-time drive past Steele to double Liverpool's advantage.
Salah completed his influential performance by winning and converting a penalty for Liverpool's third goal. Demonstrating flashes of his vintage form, the Egyptian turned Ferdi Kadioglu before powering past the left-back into the penalty area, where he was dragged back by Pascal Gross. Referee Stuart Attwell immediately pointed to the spot, and Salah gave Steele no chance with a blistering penalty kick into the net.
Brighton's Struggles Continue
The result extended Brighton's disappointing run to four defeats in their last five matches across all competitions. Despite showing promising signs during the opening period and creating several opportunities, Roberto De Zerbi's side ultimately faded as Liverpool's quality proved decisive. The visitors' inability to convert their chances, coupled with defensive vulnerabilities, contributed to their comprehensive defeat.
Salah's performance marked his fourth assist since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, highlighting his immediate impact upon rejoining the Liverpool squad. The victory ensures Liverpool's progression to the FA Cup fifth round while providing significant momentum ahead of their Premier League title challenge.
