Liverpool Fall 3–2 to Brighton in Final Premier League Match Despite Early Leads

Liverpool's post-title momentum faltered as they were defeated 3–2 by Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium on Monday, May 19, 2025. Despite taking the lead twice through Harvey Elliott and Dominik Szoboszlai, the Premier League champions were undone by a resilient Brighton side.

The match saw Liverpool take the lead early, with Elliott scoring in the 12th minute. Brighton responded through Yasin Ayari, who equalized in the 30th minute. Just before halftime, Szoboszlai's deflected shot restored Liverpool's advantage. However, Brighton's substitutes proved decisive in the second half. Kaoru Mitoma equalized shortly after coming on, and Jack Hinshelwood netted the winner in the 85th minute, with the goal confirmed by VAR after an initial offside flag.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot made several changes to his lineup, including giving Mohamed Salah the captain's armband for the first time and providing a starting opportunity to Federico Chiesa. Despite these adjustments, Liverpool struggled to maintain their early lead. Brighton's tactical substitutions and high pressing game disrupted Liverpool's rhythm, leading to their third consecutive match without a win.

The defeat does not affect Liverpool's position at the top of the Premier League table, where they have already secured the title. However, it serves as a reminder of the challenges of maintaining focus and performance levels, even after clinching the championship. Liverpool will look to regroup and finish the season strongly in their final match against Crystal Palace.

Brighton's victory keeps their hopes of European qualification alive, depending on the outcomes of other matches in the final week of the season.