Brighton all but confirmed their Europa League qualification for next season with a comfortable 3-1 victory over already-relegated Southampton at the Amex this afternoon.
Coming into the clash at the Amex this afternoon, Brighton knew that a victory over Southampton would pretty much confirm their qualification for next season’s edition of the Europa League.
A win would see them move three points clear of seventh place Aston Villa, who would then only be able to finish level on points with the Seagulls. However, Roberto De Zerbi’s side’s goal difference is signifcantly higher than that of the Villans, making it almost impossible for them to secure qualification to Europe’s second tier competition.
The Seagulls went with a front four of Julio Enciso, Alexis Mac Allister, Kaoru Mitoma and Evan Ferguson – a decision that would pay dividends just 29 minutes into the tie.
18-year-old Ferguson smashed home the opener just a minute shy of the half hour mark, in a strike Alex McCarthy should’ve perhaps done better with.
The Irishman added a second to double the Seagulls’ lead just 11 minutes later, taking his goal tally in all competitions to 11 this term.
18-year-old Evan Ferguson has scored 10+ goals across all competitions in his first full season for Brighton.
The future is very bright. 🤩 pic.twitter.com/XEdDTadVMC
— Squawka (@Squawka) May 21, 2023
Southampton provided their best effort at a fight back in the second half with Theo Walcott drawing them level after Mohamed Elyounoussi halved the deficit.
Unfortunately for Ruben Selles’ side though, Walcott’s goal was ruled out by VAR.
This saw the pendulum swing back in Brighton’s favour, as Pascal Gross eighth of the season on the 69 minute mark.
De Zerbi’s men displayed plenty of professionalism for the remainder of the tie, all but securing their position in the Europa League for next season – and guaranteeing a top seven finish at the very minimum.
The Seagulls are now guaranteed European football for the first time since being founded in 1901.
Brighton WILL play European Football for the FIRST time in their history. ✅ pic.twitter.com/NEdqihnAvc
— Football Daily (@footballdaily) May 21, 2023
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