Bold Arne Slot move pays off as Liverpool unlocks new option - 5 things spotted vs Brighton
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Brighton Talking Points: FA Cup Jones - Liverpool's Dominant Win Unlocks New Options
Liverpool delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over Brighton in the FA Cup fourth round at Anfield on February 14, 2026, advancing to the fifth round with goals from Curtis Jones, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Mohamed Salah
The match began tensely, with Brighton adopting a physical approach. Their captain Lewis Dunk received the first yellow card in the 15th minute, followed by Danny Gomez (33') and Carlos Baleba (41'), reflecting their aggressive tactics.[2] Liverpool broke through just before halftime in the 42nd minute. Curtis Jones latched onto a precise pass from Miloš Kerkez and slotted home coolly, giving the Reds a deserved lead and electrifying the Anfield crowd.[1][2] The second half saw Liverpool assert total dominance. Dominik Szoboszlai doubled the advantage in the 56th minute, finishing a superb move with a close-range strike assisted by Mohamed Salah.[1][2] Just 12 minutes later, Salah sealed the win from the penalty spot in the 68th minute, converting clinically to make it 3-0.[1][2][5] Despite Brighton's 52% possession and 16 shots, Liverpool's efficiency shone through with 5 shots on target from 13 attempts, converting three. Alisson Becker made three crucial saves for a clean sheet.[2] Key talking points emerged: Jones' goal highlighted his growing midfield influence under Arne Slot, unlocking a "new option" in attack. Szoboszlai's finish capped fluid team play, while Salah's penalty underscored his world-class status, dismantling Brighton effortlessly.[3][5] The win boosts Liverpool's cup aspirations against high-quality opposition. (Word count: 298)