With four matches remaining, Liverpool had already secured the English Premier League title. But following that triumph, the team appeared to lose its edge. They have failed to win any of their next three matches, the latest being a 3-2 defeat against Brighton. Despite taking the lead twice, the champions returned from Brighton’s home ground empty-handed.
Liverpool has now made Premier League history by becoming the first team to go winless in three consecutive matches after securing the title in the same season.
It was Brighton substitute Jack Hinshelwood who decided the fate of the match. Coming from behind twice, Brighton kept alive their slim hopes of qualifying for European competition next season with this win.
To qualify, Brighton must finish in eighth place and hope that Chelsea wins the Conference League.
The match started with Liverpool taking an early lead in the 9th minute through a stunning goal from Harvey Elliott. But in the 32nd minute, Yasin Ayari equalised for Brighton.
Just before halftime, a cross-shot from Dominik Szoboszlai beat goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, putting Liverpool ahead once again.
In the second half, Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler made some tactical changes that proved pivotal. Japanese winger Kaoru Mitoma, who came on in the 64th minute, scored four minutes later from a rebound off a Danny Welbeck shot to bring the match level again.
Although Welbeck missed several chances, Liverpool’s lacklustre performance after securing the title allowed Brighton to continue pressing with relentless attacks.
Jack Hinshelwood, just 20 years old, came on in the 84th minute and scored the winning goal in the 85th, capitalising on a pass from Matt O’Riley. Initially ruled offside, the goal was reviewed extensively by VAR and ultimately allowed to stand.
UA / TDS
