Three Liverpool Players That Stood Out in the FA Cup Win Over Brighton

In a dominant 3-0 victory over Brighton in the FA Cup fourth round at Anfield, Liverpool advanced to the fifth round with standout performances from Curtis Jones, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Mohamed Salah. The Reds, under Arne Slot, showcased clinical finishing and defensive solidity against a struggling Brighton side winless in their last five games.[1][3][4]

Curtis Jones: Opener and Improvised Defender

Curtis Jones was the unlikely hero, filling in as a makeshift right-back while delivering the opener in the 42nd minute. His first goal in over a year came from a expertly taken half-volley, diverting Milos Kerkez's whipped cross into the roof of the net off the bar. Jones' versatility and composure set the tone, ghosting into the six-yard box to break the deadlock after a goalless first half marred by a disallowed Cody Gakpo header.[1][3][6]

Dominik Szoboszlai: Midfield Maestro and Goal Machine

Returning from suspension, Dominik Szoboszlai continued his red-hot form with a stunning second goal in the 56th minute, his fifth in eight matches and 10th of the season. The Hungarian rifled home a first-time strike after a slick move involving Gakpo's crossfield switch and Salah's cushioned layoff. Szoboszlai's powerful finish from the edge of the box doubled Liverpool's lead, extinguishing Brighton's hopes following Alisson's crucial save from Lewis Dunk.[1][3][6]

Mohamed Salah: Penalty Clinician and Creative Spark

Mohamed Salah capped a sparkling display by winning and converting a 68th-minute penalty, his second goal since November and seventh of the campaign. Fouled by Pascal Gross after barging past Ferdi Kadioglu, the Egyptian calmly slotted home to seal the win. Salah's assist for Szoboszlai highlighted his all-around threat, getting back on the scoresheet amid Liverpool's cup run to salvage their season.[1][3][4]

Alisson's key saves preserved the clean sheet, but Jones, Szoboszlai, and Salah were the architects of a professional performance. Liverpool await Monday's draw, prioritizing cup success amid league inconsistency.[1][2][5]