Match Analysis

Everton vs Brighton: Premier League 2024/25 Season Opener Analysis

Final Score: Everton 0-3 Brighton

Overview

The Premier League 2024/25 season kicked off with a highly anticipated match between Everton and Brighton & Hove Albion at Goodison Park. The game ended in a resounding 3-0 victory for Brighton, marking a disappointing start for Everton in their final season at their historic stadium. This analysis delves into the key moments, tactical approaches, and individual performances that shaped the outcome of the match.

Key Moments

Early Disallowed Goal for Everton: Everton started brightly and had an early goal disallowed, which could have set a different tone for the match. This early setback seemed to affect their momentum.
Kaoru Mitoma's Opener (25'): Brighton took the lead in the 25th minute when Kaoru Mitoma was left unmarked in the box and finished a well-placed cross. This goal came against the run of play and shifted the momentum in Brighton's favor.
Controversial VAR Decision: Early in the second half, Everton was awarded a penalty when Lewis Dunk was judged to have fouled Dominic Calvert-Lewin. However, after a VAR review, the decision was overturned, much to the frustration of Everton's manager, Sean Dyche.
Danny Welbeck's Goal (56'): Shortly after the overturned penalty, Brighton doubled their lead through Danny Welbeck. This goal came from a swift counter-attack, highlighting Brighton's efficiency in transition.
Ashley Young's Red Card (70'): Everton's hopes of a comeback were dashed when veteran full-back Ashley Young received a straight red card for a foul on Mitoma. This left Everton with ten men and further compounded their difficulties.
Simon Adingra's Goal (87'): Brighton sealed the victory with a third goal from Simon Adingra, who finished off a well-worked move. This goal epitomized Brighton's dominance and clinical finishing on the day.

Tactical Analysis

Everton

Formation and Strategy: Sean Dyche set up Everton in a traditional 4-4-2 formation, aiming to leverage the physical presence of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and the pace of Dwight McNeil on the wings. The strategy was to press high and disrupt Brighton's build-up play.

Execution and Issues: While Everton started brightly, their inability to convert early chances and the disallowed goal seemed to deflate their confidence. The midfield struggled to maintain control, and the defense was caught out of position on several occasions, particularly during Brighton's counter-attacks. The red card to Ashley Young further exposed their defensive frailties.

Key Players: Dominic Calvert-Lewin was a focal point in attack but was often isolated and lacked support. Dwight McNeil showed flashes of brilliance but was unable to make a significant impact. The absence of key players like Seamus Coleman and Nathan Patterson due to injuries was also a significant blow.

Brighton

Formation and Strategy: New manager Fabian Hurzeler deployed Brighton in a fluid 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasizing possession-based football and quick transitions. The team was well-organized defensively and looked to exploit spaces behind Everton's high defensive line.

Execution and Strengths: Brighton executed their game plan to perfection. They were patient in possession, waiting for the right moments to strike. The midfield duo of Mats Wieffer and Joao Pedro controlled the tempo, while the wingers, particularly Kaoru Mitoma, were a constant threat on the flanks. The defense, marshaled by Lewis Dunk, was resolute and dealt effectively with Everton's aerial threat.

Key Players: Kaoru Mitoma was the standout performer, scoring the opening goal and causing problems for Everton's defense throughout the match. Danny Welbeck's experience and positioning were crucial, as evidenced by his goal. New signings Yankuba Minteh and Mats Wieffer also impressed, showing that they have quickly adapted to the team's style of play.

Individual Performances

Everton

Dominic Calvert-Lewin: Worked hard but was often isolated. The overturned penalty decision was a significant moment for him.
Dwight McNeil: Showed promise but lacked the final product.
Ashley Young: His red card was a turning point in the match, leaving his team vulnerable.

Brighton

Kaoru Mitoma: Man of the Match. His goal and overall play were instrumental in Brighton's victory.
Danny Welbeck: Provided a crucial second goal and was a constant threat.
Mats Wieffer: Controlled the midfield and linked play effectively.

Managerial Insights

Sean Dyche (Everton): Dyche expressed frustration with the VAR decision and the overall performance. His tactical setup was undermined by individual errors and