An own goal from Pascal Groß and a clinical finish from Alexander Isak helped the Reds claim all three points against a Brighton side that arrived in impressive form.
The result lifted Liverpool to fourth in the Premier League table, while Brighton remained third after suffering only their second defeat of the season.
Groß Own Goal Gives Liverpool the Lead
Brighton had an excellent opportunity to open the scoring when Yasin Ayari blazed over from close range after a promising attacking move.
The visitors were punished in the 17th minute. Florian Wirtz collected the ball after a partially cleared cross and drove a low shot towards goal. The effort took a deflection off Groß and wrong-footed goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen before crossing the line.
The goal ended Brighton’s run of league matches without conceding and gave Liverpool the breakthrough they needed.
Isak Doubles Liverpool’s Advantage
Liverpool struck again four minutes later through Isak, who continued his impressive scoring form.
Bradley Barcola drove forward down the right and delivered a ball into the penalty area. Isak met the delivery with a composed first-time finish to make it 2–0 in the 21st minute.
The Swedish striker has now scored in three consecutive Premier League appearances, underlining his growing influence in Liverpool’s attack. <Cite refs={["turn740875search1","turn740875search14"]}/>
Brighton attempted to respond, with Ayari later striking the post with a curling effort from outside the box. Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker also had to remain alert as the visitors looked for a route back into the contest.
Liverpool Manage the Second Half
Liverpool continued to threaten after the break but were unable to add to their advantage.
Cody Gakpo had opportunities to extend the lead, while Verbruggen made further saves to keep Brighton in contention.
At the other end, Liverpool’s defensive organisation limited Brighton’s clear-cut chances. The visitors finished with only one shot on target, and the hosts protected their two-goal cushion until the final whistle.
Reds Move Up to Fourth
The victory represented an important result for Liverpool, who had been seeking their first home league win of the campaign.
It also provided a boost for manager Andoni Iraola, whose side followed their midweek Champions League victory over Villarreal with another win at Anfield.
Brighton, meanwhile, will be disappointed that an early missed opportunity was followed by two costly defensive moments. Despite the defeat, they remain above Liverpool in the standings.
Liverpool will now turn their attention to their upcoming fixtures as they look to build on this performance and maintain their push towards the top of the Premier League table.