Liverpool claimed the top spot in the Premier League after coming from behind to defeat Brighton 2-1 at Anfield, thanks to a stunning late strike from Mohamed Salah on Saturday.
The Reds found themselves trailing at half-time to Ferdi Kadioglu’s brilliant opening goal, but two quick goals from Cody Gakpo and Salah turned the tide, punishing Brighton for not capitalising on their first-half dominance.
Under the management of Arne Slot, Liverpool secured their 13th win in 15 matches, moving two points clear of Manchester City, who lost 2-1 to Bournemouth earlier in the day.
Despite making several changes from their midweek League Cup clash, which Liverpool won 3-2, Brighton controlled much of the first half. Liverpool’s best chance before the break came when Darwin Nunez’s effort was superbly saved by Brighton’s goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
Kadioglu opened the scoring in the 14th minute with a powerful right-footed shot that hit the inside of the post. Liverpool’s stand-in goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher made a crucial save to deny Georginio Rutter shortly after, and Kadioglu wasted a golden opportunity to extend the lead.
Liverpool’s injury woes continued as Ibrahima Konate left the pitch at half-time with an arm injury, replaced by Joe Gomez. The change invigorated Liverpool, who emerged from the break transformed.
After several near misses, Gakpo equalised with a fortuitous effort that flew into the far corner. Just three minutes later, Salah secured the win with a brilliant strike after cutting inside from the right, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Despite a tense finale where Brighton pressed for an equaliser, Liverpool held on for a vital three points, taking advantage of slip-ups from title rivals City and Arsenal, who lost 1-0 to Newcastle.