Brighton secured a crucial 2-0 away victory over Brentford at the Brentford Community Stadium, propelled by goals from Diego Gomez and veteran Danny Welbeck. Goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen's exceptional performance between the posts was equally vital in sealing a decisive win for the Seagulls.
Coming into the fixture on February 21, 2026, Brentford sat seventh in the Premier League, enjoying a strong season despite recent mixed form. Brighton, meanwhile, had struggled in fourteenth place, desperate to end a poor run of results.
The match began with a competitive tempo. Brighton’s Mats Wieffer received an early yellow card in the 12th minute for tripping. Brentford tried to assert home dominance, but Brighton's defence held firm.
Brighton broke the deadlock in the 30th minute. Diego Gomez, with a well-taken effort, found the back of the net, silencing the home crowd. His goal shifted momentum decisively.
As half-time approached, Brighton doubled their lead. Veteran forward Danny Welbeck slotted home in the first minute of added time. This late goal provided the visitors a significant cushion.
Trailing by two goals, Brentford manager Thomas Frank faced a tough task. The Bees needed a dramatic change in attacking output and defensive focus. Brighton aimed to maintain composure.
Brentford made immediate changes, introducing Vitaly Janelt and Keane Lewis-Potter after the restart. Despite fresh legs, Brighton continued to frustrate their hosts. F. Kadioglu picked up a yellow card for Brighton in the 54th minute.
The home side pushed hard, creating several opportunities. They controlled 52% possession and registered 13 total shots, with three on target. However, Brighton's resolute backline and excellent goalkeeping denied them.
Brighton introduced Joël Veltman and Maxim De Cuyper to shore up their defence. Bart Verbruggen proved instrumental, making four crucial saves. Brentford's xG of 1.74 highlighted their significant missed chances.
As the clock ticked down, Brentford’s frustration grew. Yegor Yarmolyuk received a yellow card in stoppage time. Brighton remained organised, securing their clean sheet.
Brighton's clinical edge was evident, scoring two goals from an xG of 1.11, converting two of their seven shots on target. Brentford, despite a higher xG of 1.74 and 13 total shots, failed to find the net.
This vital 2-0 victory provides Brighton a much-needed boost, ending a poor run of form. For Brentford, it marks a missed opportunity to consolidate their European qualification hopes.
