Pickford Spotted Studying Water Bottle Before Crucial Penalty Save For Everton Vs Brighton

Jordan Pickford’s Preparation Pays Off in Penalty Save Against Danny Welbeck

Everton kicked off their 2025/26 Premier League campaign with a commanding 2–0 victory over Brighton on August 24, 2025, at Everton Stadium. Goals from Iliman Ndiaye in the 23rd minute and James Garner in the 52nd sealed the win, but it was Jordan Pickford’s penalty heroics that stole the spotlight.

Midway through the second half, Brighton were handed a lifeline when the referee awarded a penalty. As Danny Welbeck stepped up to take the shot, Pickford took a moment to consult his water bottle—an unusual but increasingly strategic move. The bottle reportedly contained detailed notes on Brighton’s penalty takers, including Welbeck’s tendencies. According to analysts, Welbeck favors placing his penalties to the right side of the goal.

Pickford read the situation perfectly. He dove to his right and made a crucial save, preserving Everton’s clean sheet and momentum.

This isn’t the first time Pickford has used such data-driven tactics. Since joining Everton in 2017, the England international has become known for his meticulous preparation, often relying on visual aids and statistical insights to anticipate opponents’ moves. His save against Brighton was a textbook example of how preparation off the pitch can translate into decisive moments on it.

With three points secured and a clean sheet to his name, Pickford’s performance once again underscored why he remains one of the Premier League’s most tactically astute goalkeepers.