By Our Correspondent
National News – Veteran striker Danny Welbeck delivered a stunning performance as Brighton & Hove Albion defeated Liverpool FC 2–1 in a thrilling Premier League clash on Saturday.
Welbeck’s two goals at the Amex Stadium significantly dented Liverpool’s hopes of securing a top-five finish and qualifying for next season’s Champions League.
Liverpool arrived in Brighton full of confidence after a dominant midweek European performance under manager Arne Slot.
However, the hosts quickly turned the momentum in their favour with a disciplined and energetic display that produced their fourth win in five league matches.
The breakthrough came in the 14th minute when Welbeck rose highest inside the box to head home from close range.
The goal marked his 11th league strike of the season, making the experienced forward the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.
Liverpool’s afternoon became even more difficult when in-form striker Hugo Ekitike limped off early after a heavy challenge from former Liverpool midfielder James Milner.
The visitors were also missing key stars including Alisson Becker and Mohamed Salah.
Despite the setbacks, Liverpool fought back and equalised in the 30th minute. Defender Milos Kerkez capitalised on a defensive mistake from Brighton captain Lewis Dunk, calmly lifting the ball over goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen to restore parity.
Brighton regained control after halftime. In the 56th minute, a precise cross from Yankuba Minteh was cleverly redirected by Jack Hinshelwood into Welbeck’s path, allowing the veteran striker to finish confidently for his second goal of the afternoon.
The effort was confirmed after a brief VAR review.
Slot responded by introducing fresh legs including Andy Robertson and Federico Chiesa in search of an equaliser, but Brighton remained the more threatening side as the match progressed.
The defeat leaves Liverpool fifth in the Premier League standings, two points behind Aston Villa and just one point ahead of Chelsea FC.
While their league title defence faded earlier in the season, Liverpool are still active in European competition and will soon face Manchester City in an important FA Cup quarter-final encounter.
Brighton’s victory strengthens their push for a European qualification spot while highlighting Welbeck’s remarkable late-career form.
