After a thrilling 2-1 victory over Roberto de Zerbi’s Brighton, Jurgen Klopp celebrated his 300th victory as Liverpool’s manager and took the team to the top of the Premier League—at least for the time being.
The Reds had the opportunity to surpass both of their fellow championship contenders at the top prior to Manchester City’s match against Arsenal, but they did not have the start they had hoped for after falling behind at Anfield in the opening 87 seconds of play.
Simon Adingra demonstrated how brash Brighton can be by flying down the left wing at kickoff and fizzing a pass centrally for Danny Welbeck. After ricocheting off Pascal Gross, the forward scored with an instinctive volley that went in off the post.
Liverpool, however, were unstoppable as they were involved in an exciting three-way race for the crown. In the 27th minute, Luis Diaz responded to stop Brighton’s early momentum. He took advantage of some sloppy Joel Veltman defence to pounce from close range and forcefully guide the ball past Bart Verbruggen.
That was the start of Liverpool’s remarkable comeback, as they eschewed their aggressive first-half strategy in lieu of a more gradual, methodical build-up. It was successful. The key to everything the hosts did well against his old team, Alexis Mac Allister, slid a daring pass through to Mo Salah in the 65th minute, and the Egyptian scored the game-winning goal.
Still, Klopp’s team proved their title credentials once more, and they can be happy with a fruitful afternoon’s work. For now, they are at the top.
“Although we didn’t get off to the best start, the game against a squad I knew well was incredible. At the final whistle, the outstanding Mac Allister, who personified Liverpool’s enormous spirit, said, “The mentality of the boys is amazing.”
Sheffield United will play Liverpool on Wednesday night at Anfield. Next Sunday’s trip to Old Trafford against Manchester United will then be the focus.
Brighton’s next match is against another championship opponent, Arsenal, on Saturday after they visit Brentford on Wednesday night.
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