In a dramatic night of FA Cup action, Brighton & Hove Albion pulled off a sensational comeback to dump Chelsea out of the competition, securing their place in the fifth round. The Seagulls showcased resilience and clinical finishing to overturn an early deficit, leaving the Blues frustrated at the final whistle.
The visitors found themselves ahead early on, albeit in a stroke of luck. Cole Palmer, one of Chelsea’s standout performers this season, sent a well-struck volleyed cross into the danger area. However, Brighton’s goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen misjudged the flight of the ball, fumbling it into his net to hand Chelsea the lead.
For a moment, it seemed like Mauricio Pochettino’s men were in for a comfortable night. Yet Brighton had other plans.
Albion gradually found their rhythm and, despite struggling to create clear-cut chances in the opening 60 minutes, made their rare opportunities count. Their equalizer came through Georginio Rutter, who rose highest to meet Joel Veltman’s pinpoint cross and sent a powerful header past Robert Sanchez.
Moments later, Brighton completed the turnaround in style. Rutter turned provider, threading a precise pass to Kaoru Mitoma, who showcased his composure with a delicate chip over Sanchez, sending the home crowd into raptures.
Chelsea players protested Mitoma’s goal, claiming a handball by Tariq Lamptey in the build-up. However, with no VAR in place for the FA Cup fourth round, the officials’ decision stood, much to the frustration of the Blues.
Despite fielding a strong lineup, Chelsea struggled to respond. Their best chance came when Enzo Fernandez fired a shot over the bar, summing up a disappointing night for the London club.
Both teams won’t have to wait long for a rematch, as they meet again in the Premier League on Friday at the Amex Stadium (20:00 GMT). Chelsea currently sit nine points and six places ahead of Brighton in the league standings, but after this cup upset, the Seagulls will fancy their chances of doing the double over the Blues.
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With momentum on their side, can Brighton pull off another victory, or will Chelsea bounce back with a statement performance? Share your thoughts!