Brighton: Test of Character After Debacle
Brighton suffered one of the worst defeats in their history last weekend, losing an incredible 7-0 to Nottingham Forest. This debacle has sparked a wave of criticism towards manager Fabian Hürzeler, who is now under serious pressure. Although the season started well, with victories over big teams like Manchester United, Manchester City, and Tottenham, poor form in the last 12 matches (only two wins) has pushed the team down to 10th place in the Premier League, distancing them from European positions.
Defense has become the main problem for the “Seagulls,” and the loss to Forest is the best indicator of their defensive weaknesses. Forest scored seven goals from nine shots on target, despite having only 37% possession. This clearly shows that Brighton suffers from poor defensive organization and inefficiency in midfield. Hürzeler will have to find a way to stabilize the team, as they now face another tough challenge against an in-form Chelsea.
The good news for Brighton is their relatively solid FA Cup record, having progressed in five of the last six seasons since entering the Premier League. However, their history against Chelsea is not promising – they have lost their last four encounters and have only one win in their last 11 home matches against the “Blues.”
Regarding the squad, Brighton still cannot count on Jason Steele, Igor Julio, Ferdi Kadioglu, James Milner, and Solly March due to injuries. Mats Wieffer, Carlos Baleba, Yasin Ayari, and Pervis Estupiñán are doubtful. New signing Eiran Cashin could make his debut and strengthen the defense alongside captain Lewis Dunk, while Diego Gomez and Matt O’Riley will compete for a place in midfield.
Chelsea: Fight for Fourth Place and Continued Good Form
Chelsea managed to come from behind in their last Premier League match against West Ham and win 2-1, making up for their 3-1 loss to Manchester City. Coach Enzo Maresca praised the team’s mental strength, as they have now earned points from losing positions 13 times this season. This victory lifted them to fourth place in the table, two points ahead of City.
Although Chelsea’s performances have been inconsistent, the FA Cup is a competition where they have a rich history – winning the trophy eight times and now chasing their 26th progression to the fifth round in the last 28 seasons. However, their away form has not been great – they have not won in their last four matches away from home (two draws and two losses). Nevertheless, they have a good record against Brighton, with seven wins in their last 11 matches at the Amex Stadium.
Regarding the squad, Maresca will be without the suspended Mykhailo Mudryk, while Wesley Fofana, Omari Kellyman, Romeo Lavia, and Benoît Badiashile are sidelined due to injuries. Injuries are a growing concern, as Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu were both injured in the last match, meaning Christopher Nkunku could get a chance to start as the main striker.
Cole Palmer, who scored four goals in Chelsea’s win over Brighton earlier this season, is expected to play again as the playmaker behind the striker. Also, Neto, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Malo Gusto, and Trevoh Chalobah are hoping for a place in the starting lineup.
Possible Lineups
Brighton (4-2-3-1):
Verbruggen; Veltman, Dunk, Cashin, Lamptey; O’Riley, Hinshelwood; Adingra, Pedro, Mitoma; Welbeck
Chelsea (4-2-3-1):
Jorgensen; Gusto, Chalobah, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Neto, Palmer, Sancho; Nkunku
Betting Tips
🔹 Both Teams to Score – YES ✅
Brighton scores goals at home but struggles defensively. Chelsea has attacking strength but is not solid at the back.
🔹 Chelsea to Score 2+ Goals ✅
The Blues have already dismantled Brighton once this season and have plenty of attacking options to trouble the hosts’ defense.
🔹 Cole Palmer to Score ✅
He has already proven himself against Brighton this season and will have the freedom to play a key role in attack again.
🔹 Over 2.5 Goals in the Match ✅
Both teams play attacking football, and Brighton conceded seven goals last weekend.
We expect an exciting match, with Brighton under significant pressure to respond after the Forest disaster. However, Chelsea is in better form and looks like the favorite to progress in the FA Cup.
