The FA Cup fifth-round tie between Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion at St. James’ Park was a dramatic encounter filled with fluctuating momentum swings, controversial decisions, and ultimately, a late extra-time winner. Brighton emerged victorious, progressing to the quarterfinals thanks to Danny Welbeck’s 114th-minute strike, which capped off a thrilling 2-1 victory. The match was further intensified by red cards for both teams, adding to the already electrifying atmosphere. For Brighton, the victory extends their impressive run of form, marking five consecutive wins since a heavy defeat earlier in the season. This victory also marks their second quarterfinal appearance in three seasons and their second win at St. James’ Park this season.
The match began with Newcastle on the front foot, creating early chances. Alexander Isak had a golden opportunity from close range but failed to convert. He soon made amends, however, converting a penalty won by Tino Livramento after Yankuba Minteh’s rash challenge inside the box. Isak’s confidently taken penalty marked his 22nd goal in all competitions this season. He appeared to have doubled the lead soon after, but his powerful strike was ruled out for offside. Newcastle continued to press, with Anthony Gordon forcing a save from Brighton keeper Bart Verbruggen. Against the run of play, Brighton found an equalizer just before halftime. Joao Pedro’s incisive pass found Minteh, whose deflected shot found its way past Newcastle keeper Martin Dubravka. The goal was particularly poignant for Minteh, who joined Brighton from Newcastle last year.
The second half saw the game descend into a more fragmented and contentious affair. Tempers flared, and the match took a dramatic turn with two red cards. First, Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon was sent off in the 83rd minute for violent conduct after shoving Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke in the head. The dismissal of Gordon, a key player for Newcastle, will have significant implications for their upcoming League Cup final against Liverpool. The incident further fueled the already heated atmosphere. Soon after, Brighton also went down to ten men when Tariq Lamptey received a second yellow card for a foul on Jacob Murphy in stoppage time. Just before the end of regulation time, Fabian Schar thought he had won the game for Newcastle with a volley, only for the goal to be disallowed for offside after a VAR review.
With the scores level at 1-1 after 90 minutes, the match went into extra time. Both teams, now reduced to ten men, battled for the decisive goal. Dubravka produced a crucial save to deny Diego Gomez’s powerful shot from the edge of the area, temporarily keeping Newcastle’s hopes alive. However, Brighton’s persistence eventually paid off. In the 114th minute, Solly March’s expertly weighted pass found Danny Welbeck, who expertly chipped the ball over Dubravka to secure the victory for Brighton.
The victory is a significant boost for Brighton, who continue their impressive form under manager Fabian Hurzeler. Having never won the FA Cup, their last appearance in the final being in 1983 when they lost to Manchester United in a replay, this win keeps their hopes of a historic cup run alive. They will now await the quarterfinal draw with anticipation. For Newcastle, the defeat is a bitter pill to swallow. Their long wait for a domestic trophy, stretching back to the 1955 FA Cup, continues. Their last major trophy was the 1969 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup.
The loss of Gordon for the League Cup final is a major blow for Newcastle. His three-match ban, unless successfully appealed, will deprive them of a key attacking player for the crucial match against Liverpool. The red card incident highlights the pressure and intensity of the cup tie, with emotions spilling over in the latter stages. While Newcastle will undoubtedly be disappointed with the result, they can take some solace from their performance for large parts of the game. They will need to regroup quickly and focus on their upcoming fixtures, including the highly anticipated League Cup final.
Brighton’s resilience and ability to capitalize on opportunities, even with a man down, proved decisive. Their recent run of form suggests they are a team full of confidence and capable of competing at the highest level. Welbeck’s late winner underscores the importance of experience and composure in high-pressure situations. The win at St. James’ Park, a difficult venue for visiting teams, further reinforces their credentials as a team to be reckoned with. They have now beaten Newcastle twice at their home ground this season, showcasing their tactical flexibility and ability to adapt to different challenges.
The FA Cup tie between Newcastle and Brighton was a captivating encounter, showcasing the drama and unpredictability of cup football. From Isak’s early penalty to Welbeck’s late winner, the match was filled with moments of individual brilliance, controversial decisions, and ultimately, heartbreak for one team and jubilation for the other. The contrasting fortunes of the two teams reflect the fine margins that often decide cup ties. While Brighton celebrate their progression to the quarterfinals, Newcastle must regroup and refocus on their remaining objectives for the season, including the League Cup final. The match will undoubtedly be remembered for its intensity, drama, and the contrasting emotions it evoked.
