BRIGHTON, SEPTEMBER 29, 2025 – The Amex Stadium turned into a cauldron of euphoria as Kaoru Mitoma, Brighton & Hove Albion’s dazzling Japanese sensation, produced a footballing spectacle for the ages. In a 2-0 victory that will be replayed for years, Mitoma didn’t just shine — he ascended, delivering a solo goal straight from the Lionel Messi playbook and reigniting the Seagulls’ European dream as they soared into the Premier League’s top four.
The moment of magic arrived in the 57th minute. With the game hanging in the balance at 0-0, Mitoma pounced on a loose ball near the halfway line and began a jaw-dropping solo surge that defied logic. One by one, Vitaliy Mykolenko, Ashley Young, James Garner, Jarrad Branthwaite, and Michael Keane were left clutching air as he glided past with blistering pace and spellbinding control. Then came the exclamation point — a curling rocket beyond Jordan Pickford, ripping into the top corner and sending 31,947 fans into scenes of unrestrained chaos.
And he wasn’t done. In the 82nd minute, Mitoma turned creator, floating a perfect cross for João Pedro to nod home, sealing a victory that felt like destiny fulfilled.
After a quiet few weeks, this was Mitoma unleashed — a rebirth under Fabian Hurzeler’s bold, fluid system. Given full freedom to roam, he tormented Everton’s defense, finishing with 8 successful dribbles, 4 key passes, 1 goal, 1 assist, and a performance brimming with artistry and intent. Brighton dominated every stat — 67% possession, 21 shots, 8 on target — but it was Mitoma’s fearless flair that transformed dominance into poetry. Post-match, the humble hero summed it up simply:
“I felt the fans’ energy — this one’s for them.”
Behind the scenes, though, his brilliance hasn’t gone unnoticed. With scouts from Real Madrid, Arsenal, and PSG reportedly in attendance and whispers surrounding his 2027 contract, the race for his signature could soon ignite.
Meanwhile, Hurzeler’s tactical blueprint sparkled — relentless pressing, wide overloads, and a defensive wall marshalled by Lewis Dunk. After last week’s frustrating 2-2 draw with Leicester, this was a thunderous response — proof that Brighton aren’t content to compete; they’re coming for the big guns. Next stop: Anfield. And if Mitoma brings this fire, even Liverpool should beware.
This isn’t just another Brighton campaign — it’s a revolution in blue and white. Mitoma’s brilliance has set the tone for a European charge that feels unstoppable.