Ekitike Brace Ends Reds’ First-Half Drought

Liverpool defeated Brighton 2–0 at Anfield on Saturday, December 13, 2025, with Hugo Ekitike scoring twice and Mohamed Salah setting a new Premier League record for most goal involvements at a single club.

Match Overview

Final Score: Liverpool 2–0 Brighton
Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025
Scorers: Hugo Ekitike (1’, 62’)

Liverpool struck early, with Ekitike scoring after just 46 seconds, the fastest Premier League goal of the 2025/26 season. He later added a second with a header from Salah’s corner in the 62nd minute, marking Liverpool’s first set-piece goal of the season

Key Highlights

Ekitike’s Brace:
- First goal came from Joe Gomez’s header that fell kindly for Ekitike, who lashed the ball past Bart Verbruggen.
- Second goal was a clinical header from Salah’s corner, sealing the win.
Salah’s Return:
- Came off the bench in the 26th minute after Gomez’s injury.
- Assisted Ekitike’s second goal.
- Set a Premier League record with 277 goal involvements for one club.
- His every touch was cheered by fans amid ongoing contract speculation.
Brighton’s Efforts:
- Diego Gomez and Georginio Rutter tested Liverpool’s defense but were denied by Alisson Becker.
- Joe Gomez of Brighton escaped with only a yellow card after a studs-up challenge on Florian Wirtz.
Liverpool’s Form:

This was only their second league win in six matches, but it lifted them into the top six.
Arne Slot’s side showed improved control and maturity, managing Brighton’s possession spells effectively.

Post-Match Talking Points

Arne Slot’s Tactical Discipline: Liverpool pressed high early, then managed the game with composure.
Ekitike’s Breakthrough: His brace ended Liverpool’s first-half goal drought and showcased his growing importance.
Salah’s Future: His record-breaking assist came amid speculation about his contract, but Slot insisted he wants Salah to stay.
Brighton’s Missed Chances: Despite neat passing, they lacked cutting edge in the final third.

Conclusion

Liverpool’s 2–0 victory over Brighton was defined by Ekitike’s explosive start and Salah’s record-setting return. The win not only ended a frustrating run of first-half blanks but also pushed the Reds back into contention for the top six. For Brighton, it was another reminder of their struggles to convert possession into goals.