liverpool vs brighton: FA Cup Fourth Round Preview — Can Liverpool Build on Sunderland Win?
Liverpool return to Anfield to face Brighton in the FA Cup fourth round this afternoon, kicking off at 3: 00 p. m. ET. The Reds arrive buoyed by a hard-fought 1-0 victory at Sunderland and captain Virgil van Dijk has urged his side to use that performance as a platform. Brighton arrive under pressure after a poor run of form, promising a competitive cup tie.
Reaction from Anfield: Van Dijk urges consistency
Virgil van Dijk highlighted the importance of Liverpool’s response following the heavy disappointment against Manchester City, praising the organisation and commitment shown during the trip to the Stadium of Light. He stressed the need to remain tight defensively and maintain work-rate from first to last whistle, calling the Sunderland clean sheet and away victory an encouraging step. The captain also paid tribute to James Milner, who returns to Anfield in Brighton colours after equalling the all-time Premier League appearances record.
Team news and selection headaches
The big selection concern is the injury suffered by Wataru Endo at Sunderland. The extent of his problem was unclear at the time the programme notes were written, but it is described as significant enough to be a worry for the coming weeks. Joe Gomez, having recovered from a hip issue, is back available and offers defensive cover. Dominik Szoboszlai is eligible again after serving a one-game suspension and is expected to be reintegrated immediately, with the possibility of being employed in an unorthodox full-back role to cover defensive gaps. Fringe attackers such as Giorgi Mamardashvili and Federico Chiesa could also be handed opportunities in cup rotation.
Brighton’s struggles and Anfield history
Brighton come into the tie without a win in six league outings and their most recent victory across all competitions came in the third round at Old Trafford. Their visit keeps alive a narrative in which they have rarely prevailed at Anfield, with just a single Premier League-era success on Merseyside. That mixed form suggests Liverpool will be favourites on paper, but cup ties often defy form tables and Brighton have shown the capacity for dangerous performances on the break and from set pieces.
Tactical match-up: structure versus creativity
Liverpool’s recent displays have placed a premium on defensive organisation and intensity. Expect an emphasis on compactness, protecting the backline in Endo’s absence and exploiting set-piece moments. Brighton will likely look to disrupt rhythm and operate with quick transitions, testing Liverpool’s ability to recover shape. If Szoboszlai is indeed used in a deeper or wider role, his passing range could prove decisive in unlocking a stubborn visiting defence.
Key storylines to watch
First, how seriously Liverpool treat squad rotation — the FA Cup offers a route to silverware but also presents a fixture pile-up. Second, the fitness update on Wataru Endo; his absence would force tactical reshuffling. Third, James Milner’s return to Anfield will add an emotional element to the match that could lift the visitors. Finally, set pieces and aerial duels could decide a tight cup game, especially if the pitch or conditions slow open play.
What the result would mean
A Liverpool victory would extend their cup run and offer a welcome stabiliser for momentum as they juggle competitions. For Brighton, an upset at Anfield would provide a timely boost to a faltering league campaign. Expect intensity, tactical tweaks and a keenly contested contest at 3: 00 p. m. ET — a tie that could hinge on one moment of quality or a single defensive lapse.
