Brighton vs Liverpool Prediction: 30/10/2024

Brighton entered a new chapter this summer with the departure of Roberto De Zerbi and the appointment of Fabian Hurzeler, a promising 31-year-old German coach. So far, the change has been positive, as the Seagulls have started the Premier League season well, currently sitting in 6th place.

They were unbeaten in their first five matches, with two wins and three draws, and despite a 4-2 loss to Chelsea, they quickly bounced back by defeating Tottenham 3-2 at home before the international break. Hurzeler’s arrival has provided a promising start for Brighton’s new season.

Liverpool also saw a major change this summer with Jürgen Klopp, who led them to Champions League and Premier League titles, leaving the club. Arne Slot, the former Feyenoord coach, stepped in to fill Klopp’s shoes, and the team has responded with impressive form.

Liverpool currently leads the Premier League, one point ahead of Manchester City and Arsenal, with six wins from seven games and only one loss against Nottingham Forest. Following that, they recorded victories over Bournemouth, Wolverhampton, and Crystal Palace. Liverpool’s Champions League campaign is off to a strong start too, with wins against AC Milan and Bologna.

For Brighton, only their recent signing, O’Riley, is confirmed out of the game, though several players remain questionable, including wingers Adingra and March, forward Joao Pedro, defender van Hecke, and veteran James Milner. To fill these gaps, they can rely on Minteh (1 goal and 1 assist), Rutter (2 goals), and Welbeck (4 goals and 1 assist). Japanese winger Mitoma (1 goal and 2 assists) and former Lille player Baleba are also key contributors.

On Liverpool’s side, while there is some uncertainty around Harvey Elliott, Chiesa, and goalkeeper Alisson, their injury situation is much more manageable than last season. Liverpool’s attack has considerable depth, with regular starters Salah (4 goals, 4 assists), Diaz (5 goals), and Jota performing well. Chiesa, Gakpo, and Nunez provide strong options from the bench.

In defense, Van Dijk, Konaté, Robertson, and Trent remain solid, while MacAllister and Gravenberch have anchored the midfield, with Gravenberch standing out in particular.

 

Prediction

This EFL Cup match at Brighton’s home ground is expected to see goals, as none of Brighton’s previous 18 home EFL Cup games have ended 0-0. Liverpool’s away games this season have also consistently produced goals, with all 18 matches featuring at least two goals. Given the form of both sides, over 2.5 goals seems likely.

Prediction: Brighton 1 : 2 Liverpool