Everton vs Brighton Report

Scorers: Mitoma 26’, Welbeck 56’, Adingra 87’

A Debut to Remember for Fabian Hürzeler

Brighton & Hove Albion’s new era under Fabian Hürzeler started on a triumphant note as they secured their fourth consecutive opening-day victory by defeating Everton 3-0 at Goodison Park.

This marks the first time in the club’s history they have achieved such a feat, signalling a promising start for Hürzeler in the Premier League.

Early Drama and Disallowed Goals

The match began with high intensity as Everton’s Jack Harrison thought he had opened the scoring early, only for his goal to be disallowed due to an offside call.

This moment shifted the momentum, and Brighton quickly took control. João Pedro’s long-range effort rattled the woodwork, a precursor to the relentless pressure Brighton would maintain throughout the match.

Brighton Breaks Through

The deadlock was broken in the 26th minute when debutant Yankuba Minteh’s excellent cross found Kaoru Mitoma, who tapped in from close range.

This goal not only exemplified Brighton’s attacking prowess but also highlighted their strategic execution under Hürzeler’s guidance.

Everton’s Missed Opportunities and Disciplinary Woes

Everton’s hopes were briefly lifted early in the second half when they were awarded a penalty following a challenge on Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

However, the VAR review overturned this decision, compounding the Toffees’ frustrations. The situation worsened for Everton as Idrissa Gueye’s misplaced pass led to Danny Welbeck extending Brighton’s lead, marking his score in a 15th consecutive Premier League campaign.

Late Red Card and Brighton’s Clincher

Everton’s woes were compounded when Ashley Young received a red card for a last-man foul on Mitoma, reducing the hosts to ten men.

This numerical disadvantage allowed Brighton to capitalise further, with Simon Adingra scoring in the 87th minute to seal a dominant 3-0 victory.

Adingra’s goal not only underscored Brighton’s attacking depth but also their ability to exploit spaces in critical moments.

Brighton’s Statement Win, Everton’s Troubling Start

Brighton’s comprehensive victory at Goodison Park serves as a statement of intent for the season ahead under Hürzeler’s leadership.

For Everton and manager Sean Dyche, the match highlighted areas needing urgent attention to avoid another challenging season.

Brighton’s strategic prowess and clinical execution on the opening day set a high standard for their Premier League campaign, leaving Everton to reflect on a disappointing start and regroup for the challenges ahead.

This result not only sets the tone for both teams’ ambitions and potential challenges this season but also highlights the competitive nature of the Premier League.

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Everton v Brighton, 2024/25 | Premier League