Brighton Stages Comeback Against Nottingham Forest with Welbeck’s Spectacular Free-kick

The Premier League clash between Brighton & Hove Albion and Nottingham Forest at the Amex Stadium witnessed a dramatic first half on Sunday, September 22, 2024. Brighton, having trailed earlier in the match, turned the tables on Nottingham Forest with two exceptional goals shortly before the halftime whistle.

Nottingham Forest, led by manager Nuno Espírito Santo, appeared to be in command during the initial stages. Chris Wood opened the scoring for the visitors, confidently converting a penalty in the 13th minute. The goal came after Carlos Baleba‘s clumsy challenge, giving Forest an early advantage.

Brighton struggled to find their rhythm as Forest executed their game plan effectively, relying on solid defensive tactics and quick counter-attacks. The visitors seemed well-prepared to replicate their previous away success, still reveling in their shock victory over Liverpool at Anfield.

However, as the half progressed, Brighton found their footing. Jack Hinshelwood equalized for the home side in the 42nd minute with a powerful header, courtesy of a precise cross from Van Hecke. The Brighton fans, who had been subdued for much of the half, erupted with excitement.

The momentum firmly shifted in favor of Brighton when Danny Welbeck scored an exquisite free-kick just outside the box in the 45th minute. His strike sailed past Forest’s goalkeeper, Matz Sels, reinforcing Brighton’s attacking prowess and turning the match on its head.

“The tactics seemed to unravel for Forest,” noted a commentator. “Brighton’s quick goals left Nuno looking on with disbelief, as his side, which had been resolute throughout, suddenly faced a rejuvenated Brighton team.”

Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler, despite being one of the youngest Premier League managers at 31, has impressed pundits with his team’s vibrant attacking style. Hürzeler had acknowledged the challenge posed by Forest before the match, praising their solid defence and quick transitions.

Both teams fielded strong line-ups, with Brighton featuring players such as Joao Pedro on the bench and Callum Hudson-Odoi starting for Forest. As the match reached its halfway mark, both sides remained unbeaten in the season, with their records now up for contention in this vividly competitive fixture.