Brighton & Hove Albion found their way back into the contest thanks to a moment of individual brilliance from Kaoru Mitoma, as the Japanese international struck a superb equaliser to make it 1–1 and swing the momentum back in the Seagulls’ favour.
The goal came in the 60th minute after a sharp spell of Brighton possession in the final third. Yasin Ayari, operating with confidence on the right side, delivered a fizzing, assertive pass across City’s defensive line. It was a perfectly weighted ball—Ayari’s first assist of the league campaign—and one that invited Mitoma to do what he does best.
Starting from the left, Mitoma shifted intelligently across the edge of the box, creating just enough space to open his body. With calm precision, he curled a delightful effort beyond the goalkeeper and into the bottom-right corner, leaving the defence helpless. It was a goal created from very little, but finished with top-level composure.
The strike marked Mitoma’s second goal of the Premier League season, underlining his growing influence in Brighton’s attacking play. At a time when the visitors were searching for inspiration, the 28-year-old winger stepped up as a proven top-tier performer, delivering when it mattered most.
Ayari also deserves significant credit for the build-up. The Swedish midfielder showed awareness and bravery in possession, threading the ball through a congested area in City’s final third. His contribution not only brought Brighton level but also highlighted his development and increasing responsibility within the side.
The equaliser lifted the energy inside the stadium, with Brighton suddenly playing with greater belief and urgency. Mitoma’s goal did more than change the scoreline—it shifted the balance of the match, reminding everyone of Brighton’s attacking threat and ability to punish even the smallest lapse in concentration.
As the game moved forward, both teams pushed for control, but this moment stood out as a defining passage of play—an assist delivered with conviction and a finish executed with elite quality.
