Salah Sets Up Goal on Return as Liverpool Defeat Brighton

Overview

Mohamed Salah marked his return to Liverpool starting action with a crucial assist as the Reds secured a 2-0 Premier League victory over Brighton. The win eased pressure on manager Arne Slot while ending weeks of speculation surrounding Salah future and role at Anfield.

Mohamed Salah celebrates after assisting Hugo Ekitike goal at Anfield.
Image Source: Instagram/@mosalah —Edited & Modified by Us

Salah Makes Impact After Turbulent Week

Mohamed Salah delivered a telling contribution on his return to Liverpool matchday action setting up a goal in a 2-0 home victory over Brighton and Hove Albion at Anfield on Saturday.

The Egyptian forward came under intense scrutiny before kick off following public frustration about his recent benching and strained relationship with manager Arne Slot. Despite the noise Salah received a thunderous reception when he entered the match in the 26th minute replacing the injured Joe Gomez.

At that stage Liverpool were already ahead after Hugo Ekitike found the net inside the opening minute.

Lightning Start Gives Liverpool Early Control

Liverpool wasted no time asserting themselves. Just 46 seconds after kick off Joe Gomez played a precise pass that allowed Hugo Ekitike to fire past Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.

Despite the early setback Brighton responded well and created several opportunities to draw level. However poor finishing and strong defensive recovery kept them at bay.

Liverpool whose title defence has faltered following a difficult run of results looked sharper and more composed than in recent weeks.

Salah Provides Assist as Ekitike Strikes Again

Salah influence became clear in the second half as Liverpool looked to seal the result. Brighton came close through Diego Gomez who struck the outside of the post while Brajan Gruda also tested the home side.

In the 60th minute Liverpool doubled their advantage. Salah delivered a perfectly placed corner which Ekitike headed home for his second goal of the night sending the Anfield crowd into celebration.

Salah nearly added a goal of his own in stoppage time after being set up by Federico Chiesa but his effort sailed over the crossbar.

Background Contract Tension and Squad Decisions

Salah had voiced frustration after being benched in three consecutive league games including last weeks 3-3 draw against Leeds United. He later claimed the club had “thrown him under the bus” and admitted there was currently no relationship with Slot.

The forward was also left out of Liverpool Champions League trip to Inter Milan where he posted a solitary gym photo on social media fuelling speculation over his future.

Slot later confirmed that discussions would take place insisting he had no desire to see Salah leave the club.

Liverpool Climb to Sixth Pressure Eases on Slot

The victory lifts Liverpool to sixth place in the Premier League standings offering much needed relief to Arne Slot after weeks of mounting criticism.

Salah who signed a two year contract extension in April is set to depart soon for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. His availability later this season will depend on how far Egypt progress with the final scheduled for January 18.

Despite links to the Saudi Pro League Salah invited his family to Anfield amid swirling speculation suggesting the occasion carried personal significance.

Salah Legacy at Liverpool Remains Strong

Salah sits third on Liverpool all time scoring list with 250 goals. During his time at the club he has lifted two Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy.

After scoring 29 league goals during Liverpool title winning campaign last season the forward has netted just four times in the league this term making his upcoming absence a significant factor in Liverpool season.

Chelsea Return to Top Four with Everton Win

Palmer and Gusto Shine at Stamford Bridge

Elsewhere in the Premier League Chelsea secured a 2-0 victory over Everton to climb back into the top four. First half goals from Cole Palmer and Malo Gusto ended a four game winless run across all competitions.

Palmer opened the scoring with a precise finish after a well timed pass from Gusto slotting the ball between Jordan Pickford and the near post.

Moments after the break Gusto turned scorer finishing from close range after Pedro Neto outpaced his marker to deliver the assist.

Everton Fight but Fall Short

Everton started brightly and matched Chelsea energy for much of the contest. Chances fell to James Tarkowski, Idrissa Gueye, and Jack Grealish, while Iliman Ndiaye struck the post late on.

Despite their efforts the visitors were unable to overturn Chelsea advantage slipping to eighth in the league standings.

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca welcomed the result calling it a vital confidence boost after recent league draws and a midweek Champions League defeat.

Related Reads:

Fifa World Cup 2026 Schedule

Fifa World Cup 2026 Groups

Lionel Messi Visit India