The Daily Star Ireland
Brighton and Tottenham will clash at the Amex Stadium on September 20 in a fixture that promises intensity, tactical intrigue, and potentially big implications for the table. Both sides arrive with contrasting narratives—Brighton buoyed by impressive recent form, while Spurs continue to wrestle with inconsistency and a growing injury list.
Brighton’s Momentum Under Hürzeler
Fabian Hürzeler has quickly shaped Brighton into a side that is both resilient in defense and daring going forward. Their 2–1 victory over Manchester City last week underlined just how far the Seagulls have come, demonstrating not only grit but also their ability to go toe-to-toe with the league’s best.
Despite missing long-term absentees Adam Webster and Solly March, Brighton’s squad depth has been tested but not broken. James Milner, still defying age with his leadership and reliability, continues to be a steadying presence. Kaoru Mitoma’s flair and Yankuba Minteh’s directness bring unpredictability in wide areas, while Danny Welbeck remains a reliable focal point in attack. Together, they give Brighton a multi-dimensional edge that has made them difficult to contain.
Tottenham’s Fitness Concerns and Transitional Phase
For Spurs, Thomas Frank’s tenure has delivered flashes of quality, most notably a convincing 3–0 win over West Ham, but sustaining momentum has proven difficult. Injuries have disrupted rhythm, with James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, and Dominic Solanke all sidelined.
New signings Xavi Simons and Randal Kolo Muani are still finding their feet in North London, while Richarlison is expected to spearhead the attack, flanked by Simons and Mohammed Kudus. In midfield, Rodrigo Bentancur and Pape Matar Sarr will have to work tirelessly to stem Brighton’s aggressive transitions. Defensive stability is also a worry with key figures like Radu Drăgușin and Yves Bissouma unavailable, leaving Spurs vulnerable to Brighton’s wide threats.
Tactical Battles to Watch
The game could hinge on the flanks, particularly the duel between Kaoru Mitoma and Pedro Porro. Mitoma’s ability to beat defenders one-on-one could stretch Spurs’ backline, while Porro’s overlapping runs will test Brighton’s defensive discipline.
Lewis Dunk’s battle with Richarlison inside the box will also be decisive, especially given Brighton’s reliance on set pieces and Spurs’ tendency to concede from aerial situations. For Tottenham, much will depend on whether Simons can unlock space between Brighton’s midfield lines, giving their counter-attacks the spark needed to hurt the hosts.
Prediction
Brighton’s recent momentum and Tottenham’s injury problems make the hosts slight favorites. The Seagulls have scored at least twice in five of their last six games, while Spurs have struggled to keep clean sheets on the road. With Brighton’s pressing game and creativity from wide areas, they are well-positioned to edge this contest.
Expect a competitive battle, but Brighton’s balance of discipline and flair should see them claim another statement win, keeping their upward trajectory intact while Spurs face more questions about depth and consistency.
Prediction: Brighton 3 – 1 Tottenham
