BRIGHTON 2-1 MAN UTD: Late Pedro Heroics Sink United After Welbeck’s Milestone Strike
In a thrilling encounter at the Amex Stadium, Manchester United were left reeling as Brighton & Hove Albion snatched a dramatic late victory. The Seagulls, driven by a combination of resilience and tactical discipline, handed Erik ten Hag’s side a gut-wrenching defeat, sealing a 2-1 triumph in stoppage time.
Brighton’s Joao Pedro emerged as the last-minute hero, heading home a crucial goal that preserved the Seagulls’ perfect start to the season. Earlier, former Manchester United striker Danny Welbeck had given Brighton the lead with a clinical finish, marking his 100th club career goal. The first half saw Welbeck consistently trouble United’s defense, while veteran James Milner also came close to extending the lead.
Despite Brighton’s dominance, United clawed their way back into the game. On the hour mark, Amad Diallo’s deflected shot found the back of the net, offering a lifeline to the Red Devils. Moments later, United’s young star Alejandro Garnacho thought he had scored the winner, only for VAR to rule the goal out due to an offside call.
As the game entered its final moments, United’s hopes were crushed by Pedro’s precise header, which capitalized on some slack defending by the visitors. The defeat not only spoiled United’s comeback but also highlighted ongoing issues for Ten Hag’s squad.
Ten Hag’s Zirkzee Gamble Backfires
Erik ten Hag made a surprising decision by benching summer signing Joshua Zirkzee for the match, despite his impressive debut performance against Fulham. Ten Hag had previously cautioned that Zirkzee would need time to adapt to the rigors of Premier League football, and the benching appeared to be a part of that acclimatization process.
However, Zirkzee was introduced at halftime, replacing Mason Mount. Although he showed flashes of potential, Zirkzee ultimately played a part in United’s downfall, as his positioning led to the disallowed goal that could have swung the match in their favor.
Welbeck Celebrates Centenary Goal Against Former Club
Danny Welbeck had every reason to celebrate as he netted his 100th club career goal against his old team. The goal came after some dreadful defending from United, with two crosses failing to be cleared before Kaoru Mitoma teed up Welbeck for a simple finish. Welbeck, despite his history with United, couldn’t resist celebrating his milestone.
This goal marked Welbeck’s second in as many games, further cementing his status as a thorn in United’s side—it’s the sixth time he has scored against them. With his confidence soaring, Welbeck will look to maintain this form as the season progresses.
Brighton Dominates but Fails to Capitalize
Even after taking the lead, Brighton continued to push United, creating several golden opportunities to extend their advantage. A slick team move left James Milner with a clear shot, but his weak effort was cleared off the line by Diogo Dalot. The Seagulls also saw Welbeck denied twice more, once by Andre Onana and once by the crossbar.
Despite their numerous chances, Brighton’s failure to capitalize allowed United to stay in the game, setting the stage for the drama that followed.
United Equalize but VAR Intervenes
Brighton’s inability to put the game to bed gave United a lifeline, which they seized through Amad Diallo. The Ivorian winger carved his way into the box before unleashing a powerful shot that deflected off Jan Paul van Hecke and into the net, leveling the score.
United nearly completed the turnaround when Garnacho tapped in what he thought was the winner. However, the goal was disallowed after VAR spotted a slight touch from the offside Zirkzee, crushing United’s hopes of a comeback.
Pedro’s Late Strike Breaks United’s Hearts
As the clock ticked into stoppage time, Brighton delivered the final blow. Joao Pedro was left unmarked in the box, and he made no mistake, heading home Simon Adingra’s cross to secure all three points for the Seagulls. The goal was a fitting reward for Brighton, who were arguably the better side throughout the match.
The defeat leaves Manchester United with plenty of questions as they reflect on another frustrating performance. For Brighton, it was a well-deserved victory that continues their impressive start to the season. Erik ten Hag now faces the daunting task of regrouping his squad and addressing the defensive frailties that have haunted them so far.
