Brighton & Hove Albion are quietly shaping a remarkable season under Fabian Hurzeler.
Their extra-time FA Cup victory over Newcastle United yesterday was another display of resilience, keeping them on course for both European qualification and a historic first major trophy.
The match was chaotic, featuring two red cards, late drama and Danny Welbeck delivering the decisive moment.
His composed finish in the 114th minute secured a quarter-final spot, reinforcing his knack for stepping up in big moments.
Welbeck has now scored crucial goals in both of Brighton’s wins at St James’ Park this season.
His solitary strike earned three points in the league in October, and he provided the match-winning touch when it mattered most.
His ability to contribute despite persistent injury setbacks mirrors the grit of this Brighton team. They refuse to be derailed, bouncing back from adversity time and again.
Newcastle struck first after Yankuba Minteh conceded a clumsy penalty, allowing Alexander Isak to fire home from the spot. Rather than fold, Brighton responded.
Minteh, sold by Newcastle last summer, levelled just before half-time with a deflected strike, proving the £30 million departure was a costly one for his former club.
The game’s intensity did not wane, culminating in a pair of dismissals.
Anthony Gordon saw red for lashing out at Jan Paul van Hecke, only for Brighton to squander their advantage when Tariq Lamptey picked up a needless second yellow card.
Newcastle thought they had won it when Fabian Schar volleyed home in stoppage time, but VAR ruled the goal out for offside. That reprieve was all Brighton needed.
Solly March set Welbeck through in extra time, and the veteran forward lifted the ball over Martin Dubravka to settle the tie.
Hurzeler’s side have now won five consecutive games in all competitions, responding emphatically to their humbling 7-0 defeat against Nottingham Forest last month.
Their FA Cup journey began with a commanding 4-0 win at Norwich City, followed by a dramatic late victory over Chelsea. They now stand one step away from Wembley Stadium.
The league remains just as crucial. Brighton’s upcoming fixtures against Fulham and Manchester City will shape their European push, but the FA Cup offers another route.
Hurzeler has instilled a sense of belief and discipline in his squad. Brighton are proving they belong among English football’s elite.
