Brighton & Hove Albion advanced to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup after sealing a dramatic 2-1 win against Newcastle United at St James' Park on Sunday, March 2, 2025. The match was marked by high tension and unexpected twists, including red cards for both sides during the final moments of regulation time.
The game started with Newcastle taking the lead through Alexander Isak's penalty, awarded after Brighton's Yankuba Minteh fouled Tino Livramento inside the box. Isak's clinical finish from the penalty spot provided the Magpies with hope as they looked to control the match. Despite the lead, they failed to maintain composure as Brighton fought back to equalize just before the half-time whistle.
Minteh, an ex-Newcastle player, made amends for his earlier mistake by sneaking the ball past Martin Dubravka after latching onto Joao Pedro's return pass from the throw-in. The equalizer shifted the momentum back to Brighton and set the stage for what was to come.
During the second half, both teams struggled to find rhythm, with Newcastle introducing Bruno Guimaraes, Joe Willock, and Jacob Murphy to boost their attack. Brighton, meanwhile, created several chances but failed to convert them. A missed Newcastle opportunity came from Fabian Schar when his volley found the net but was called offside following VAR review.
The game took several turns late on when Anthony Gordon was dismissed for violent conduct after pushing Jan Paul van Hecke during a tussle. Just moments later, Brighton's Tariq Lamptey earned his second yellow card, leaving both teams down to ten players as they headed for extra time.
It was during this tense extra time when Danny Welbeck emerged to become Brighton's hero once again. Coming off the bench, Welbeck slipped past Newcastle's defenders before expertly chipping the ball over Dubravka, sealing the victory with just six minutes remaining. His ninth goal of the season showcased his resilience and finishing skills, reminding fans of his capability to shine under pressure.
“It is great to get the winning goal. It was a solid team performance,” said Welbeck post-match. “There was a lot going on, lots of ups and downs, but we stuck with it. I'm so proud of the lads.” His sentiments echoed the team's determination throughout the match, and he was elated to play the decisive role.
Speaking of the victory, Brighton's manager, Fabian Hurzeler, praised his team's composure amid chaos. “It was very emotional with lots of ups and downs. The key was we stayed together, stayed calm, and we tried to find solutions,” Hurzeler said. His focus on teamwork proved instrumental as Brighton pushed through adverse situations to grab the win.
Despite the loss, Newcastle’s performances remain promising, particularly with Isak's ability to score from the spot. The return of Joelinton after injury provided additional attacking options, and they will be eager to overcome this disappointment as they prepare for upcoming matches, including their next challenge against Liverpool.
For Welbeck, the victory also rekindles memories of his glory days. “I am feeling very good, feeling fit and strong – thanks to my mum and dad for giving me good genes,” he quipped, reflecting on his career revival after past struggles with injuries.
Brighton will take this momentum forward as they aim for continued success, not just within the FA Cup but across their league campaign. With the Seagulls showcasing resilience against fierce opposition, fans may start raising hopes for silverware this season.