Liverpool staged an impressive comeback to edge past Brighton 2-1 at Anfield, reclaiming their position at the summit of the Premier League on Saturday.
Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah scored in quick succession during the second half, sealing all three points for Arne Slot’s team, now two points clear of second-placed Manchester City, who suffered a 2-1 defeat at Bournemouth.
Brighton got off to a flying start, taking control early on and breaking the deadlock in the 14th minute.
Kaoru Mitoma’s explosive run set up Ferdi Kadioglu, who unleashed a powerful shot to give the Seagulls an early advantage.
The visitors came close to doubling their lead when Georginio Rutter broke free on goal, but Caoimhin Kelleher made a crucial save to keep Liverpool in the game.
As the first half progressed, Brighton held firm, going into the break with a well-deserved lead.
Liverpool faced a setback when Ibrahima Konate was forced off due to injury, with Joe Gomez coming on as his replacement.
Gomez nearly made his mark right away, rising to meet a cross with a powerful header, but his effort went straight at Brighton’s goalkeeper, Bart Verbruggen. Liverpool continued to push forward, with missed opportunities from Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah adding to the frustration.
But in a dramatic turn, Liverpool flipped the game on its head within a matter of moments. First, Gakpo’s free-kick slipped through Brighton’s defense, sneaking into the far corner with help from Darwin Nunez’s pressure.
Just 12 seconds later, Salah curled in a brilliant left-footed strike to put Liverpool ahead, igniting jubilant celebrations in front of the Kop.
Liverpool held firm as Brighton launched a late push for an equalizer, but the Reds maintained their advantage.
With rivals City and Arsenal both dropping points, Liverpool enjoyed a rewarding weekend, their fightback underscoring their intent to stay at the top.
