Slot says one player showed exactly what the team needed

Slot Praises Salah: "One Player Showed Exactly What the Team Needed"

In Liverpool's commanding 3-0 FA Cup fourth-round victory over Brighton at Anfield on February 14, 2026, manager Arne Slot singled out Mohamed Salah for embodying precisely what the team required during a challenging season.[1][2][3]

The Reds advanced to the fifth round with goals from Curtis Jones, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Salah himself. Jones opened the scoring just before halftime, tapping in from Milos Kerkez's precise cross after the left-back's strong overlapping run—a second assist in three games for the £45m summer signing from Bournemouth.[2][3] Liverpool were flat initially, possibly fatigued from midweek Premier League duties, but dominated after the break.[3]

Salah, the Egyptian King, dazzled in the second half. He cushioned a pass from Cody Gakpo to release Szoboszlai, who lashed home his 10th goal of the campaign into the top corner, bringing Anfield to its feet.[1][2][3] Moments later, Salah twisted past three defenders, including Pascal Groß, to win and convert a penalty, rifling it into the top corner under pressure.[1][2][3] This marked the 15th time since last season Salah has scored and assisted in a match—nine more than any other Premier League player.[2]

Slot lauded more than Salah's goals and assist (one each), highlighting his defensive work-rate: "Salah helps the team a lot... happy with more than just the goals."[6] Pundits called it a "vintage" performance, with Salah running defenders ragged and stepping up when the front three needed it most.[4][7] He earned a standing ovation upon substitution by prodigy Rio Ngumoha in the 77th minute.[2][3]

Brighton probed via Mitoma and Minteh but couldn't respond, as Liverpool's defense held firm despite lapses. Salah set records and reignited optimism, signaling the Reds' season remains alive amid ups and downs.[1][5] Anfield's magic shone through on this chilly Valentine's night.[1]

(Word count: 298)