Danny Welbeck’s extra-time strike sealed Brighton’s place in the FA Cup quarterfinals as they triumphed 2-1 over Newcastle in a dramatic clash at St James’ Park.
The match was filled with tension, featuring red cards for both teams and a controversial penalty.
Newcastle took the lead in the 22nd minute through Alexander Isak’s penalty, awarded after Yankuba Minteh fouled Tino Livramento in the box.
The penalty marked Isak’s 22nd goal of the season, and he nearly doubled the lead with another shot that was ruled offside.
Despite their dominance, Newcastle couldn’t hold onto their advantage, as Minteh’s deflected shot in the 44th minute, following a brilliant pass from Joao Pedro, pulled Brighton level.
The second half saw more drama, as Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon was sent off in the 83rd minute for violent conduct after shoving Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke in the head.
Brighton, too, were reduced to 10 men when Tariq Lamptey received a second yellow card in stoppage time.
Newcastle’s Fabian Schar thought he had scored the winner in stoppage time, but VAR ruled it offside.
In extra time, Brighton pressed forward, with Newcastle’s goalkeeper Martin Dubravka making key saves to keep them in the game.
However, Welbeck capitalised on a brilliant pass from Solly March in the 114th minute to clip the ball over Dubravka and secure Brighton’s victory.
This win marks Brighton’s second FA Cup quarterfinal appearance in three seasons, as they continue their strong run following a difficult 7-0 defeat at Nottingham Forest.
For Newcastle, who have not won a domestic trophy since 1955, the loss adds to their frustrations as they prepare for the League Cup final against Liverpool.
