Brighton secured a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Newcastle at St James’ Park to advance to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.
Danny Welbeck’s fantastically crafted end within the 114th minute sealed the win for the Seagulls, punishing Newcastle for missed possibilities in what was an extremely entertaining contest.
The match obtained off to a high-tempo begin, with either side keen to place themselves within the driving seat.
Newcastle almost took the lead early on when Alexander Isak’s header was blocked by Adam Webster, and his follow-up effort sailed over.
Brighton responded with an opportunity of their very own, as Joao Pedro made his means into the field however was stopped by Dan Burn.
The breakthrough got here within the twenty second minute when former Newcastle winger Yankuba Minteh clumsily introduced down Tino Livramento contained in the penalty space.
Referee Anthony Taylor had no hesitation in awarding the penalty, and Isak stepped as much as confidently dispatch the spot-kick into the highest nook, giving the hosts the lead.
It’s Danny Welbeck’s world, we’re simply residing in it.#EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/EfiBjNP2Cz
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) March 2, 2025
Newcastle continued to push ahead following the opener, and Isak thought he had doubled their benefit with an excellent first-time end, just for the purpose to be dominated out for offside.
Brighton struggled to create clear-cut possibilities however grew into the sport as half-time approached.
Their persistence paid off within the forty fourth minute when Joao Pedro performed a superbly weighted through-ball to Minteh. The Gambian winger stayed onside and slotted previous Martin Dubravka, his shot deflecting barely off Kieran Trippier on its means in.
Out of respect for his former membership, Minteh kept away from celebrating in entrance of his outdated followers.
The second half was much more of a battle, with each groups pushing for a winner. Newcastle had a number of alternatives, most notably when Joe Willock did not make contact with a cross that solely wanted a easy contact to transform.
Brighton additionally had possibilities, with Joao Pedro forcing a powerful save from Dubravka.
The sport took a dramatic flip within the 83rd minute when Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon was despatched off for a second of insanity.
After an offside determination, the winger pushed Jan Paul van Hecke within the head, prompting the referee to brandish a straight purple card.
FT: WHAT A WIN IN THE FA CUP! 🤩
[1-2] 📲 #NEWBHA // #BHAFC 🟡🔵 pic.twitter.com/PrTniUcLhm
— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) March 2, 2025
Brighton regarded to capitalise on their numerical benefit, however Tariq Lamptey’s dismissal in stoppage time for a second bookable offense levelled the taking part in area as soon as once more.
With the rating tied at 1-1 after 90 minutes, additional time was on the playing cards. Each groups seemed to be shattered however continued to battle for a successful purpose.
Newcastle got here agonisingly shut within the 118th minute when Dan Burn’s highly effective drive flashed inches vast of the far put up. However simply moments later, Brighton delivered the killer blow.
Solly March discovered house on the correct flank and performed a superbly timed by means of ball to Welbeck, who had stayed onside.
The England worldwide displayed nice composure, lifting the ball over the onrushing Dubravka to finish the turnaround for the guests.
Newcastle desperately looked for an equaliser within the dying moments, however their efforts fell brief. As Willock fired a speculative shot vast in stoppage time, Eddie Howe’s anguish on the touchline summed up the Magpies’ frustrations.
Brighton held on within the closing seconds to safe their place within the quarter-finals, leaving Newcastle to rue their missed possibilities and disciplinary points.
The Seagulls now march on within the FA Cup, whereas the Magpies should rapidly refocus forward of their EFL Cup closing in opposition to Liverpool in two weeks’ time, though they’ll have to take action now with out the suspended Gordon.
