Liverpool Cruise Past Brighton to Reach FA Cup Fifth Round

Liverpool delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion in the FA Cup fourth round at Anfield on February 14, 2026, booking their place in the fifth round with a polished performance under head coach Arne Slot.

Goals from Curtis Jones (42′), Dominik Szoboszlai (56′), and Mohamed Salah (68′ pen) secured the win, while Alisson Becker preserved the clean sheet with a crucial first-half save.


First Half: Jones Breaks the Deadlock

Liverpool controlled possession early but faced a disciplined Brighton setup. Salah’s intelligent movement and link-up play with Szoboszlai and Jones gradually stretched the visitors’ back line.

The breakthrough arrived three minutes before the interval. A slick passing move exposed Brighton’s defensive lapse, allowing Jones to pounce and fire home from close range, giving the Reds a deserved 1-0 lead at halftime.

Brighton responded with urgency after the restart. Captain Lewis Dunk nearly drew the Seagulls level with a powerful header, but Alisson reacted superbly to tip the effort away and maintain Liverpool’s advantage.


Second Half: Szoboszlai Shines, Salah Seals It

Liverpool asserted full control in the second half. The standout team goal came in the 56th minute when Kerkez switched play quickly to Salah, who cushioned the ball perfectly into Szoboszlai’s path. The Hungarian midfielder rifled a low finish beyond the goalkeeper to double the lead.

Salah then put the tie beyond doubt from the penalty spot after Pascal Groß fouled him inside the area. The Egyptian calmly converted his 20th goal of the season, capping a dominant display.

Brighton, now winless in five matches, struggled to mount a response as Liverpool managed the closing stages professionally.


Slot Praises Clinical Edge

Speaking after the match, Slot highlighted his side’s efficiency and composure.

“We controlled the game in the right moments and were clinical when it mattered. The focus and energy from the team were excellent. Curtis and Dominik were outstanding, and that’s the level we need in every competition.”

Jones’ impact off the bench and Szoboszlai’s commanding midfield performance stood out, while Salah’s consistency continues to drive Liverpool’s attacking threat.

Liverpool now await Monday’s fifth-round draw as their pursuit of FA Cup silverware continues.


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