20.05.2025
Reading time: 3 min

Man of the Match Kaoru Mitoma: Brighton’s Super-Sub Who Crushed the Champions

Man of the Match Kaoru Mitoma: Brighton’s Super-Sub Who Crushed the Champions

Man of the Match Kaoru Mitoma was the undisputed hero of Brighton’s stunning 3-2 win over Liverpool in Matchweek 37 of the 2024/2025 Premier League. Though he didn’t start the match, Mitoma’s impact off the bench was immediate and unforgettable.

Substituted in for Simon Adingra in the 65th minute, it took Mitoma just four minutes to score the crucial equalizer for Brighton against Liverpool, reigniting hope for a comeback that turned into a memorable victory.

Brighton vs Liverpool: Mitoma Leads the Fightback Against the Champions

Liverpool twice took the lead through Harvey Elliott and Dominik Szoboszlai, but Brighton refused to back down in front of their home fans at the Amex Stadium. Yasin Ayari pulled one back, and then Kaoru Mitoma scored Brighton’s second goal with a brilliant solo run that cut through the Reds’ defense.

In the dying minutes, Jack Hinshelwood completed the turnaround, sealing a dramatic 3-2 win for Brighton. But the night belonged to Mitoma — the super-sub who lit the spark.

Kaoru Mitoma vs Liverpool: Stats That Tell the Story

Despite only playing 25 minutes, Kaoru Mitoma’s stats vs Liverpool were among the best on the pitch:

  • 1 equalizing goal (69th minute)

  • 3 shots on target

  • 1 big chance created

  • 2 successful dribbles

  • 93% pass accuracy

  • Match rating: 8.5 (Brighton’s highest)

This performance earned him the rightful title of Man of the Match Brighton vs Liverpool.

Why Was Kaoru Mitoma Named Man of the Match?

Many are asking: why was Kaoru Mitoma chosen as Man of the Match against Liverpool? The answer is clear — he didn’t just score, he changed the energy of the entire match.

From the moment he stepped onto the field, Mitoma attacked with purpose, broke Liverpool’s rhythm, and inspired his teammates. His goal shifted momentum completely in Brighton’s favor.

Mitoma’s Impact Leaves Liverpool Winless Again

Even though Liverpool have already been crowned 2025 Premier League champions, this defeat continues their end-of-season slump. After drawing and losing their previous two matches, they’ve now gone three games without a win.

And this time, it was Kaoru Mitoma’s goal against Liverpool that exposed their lack of focus and energy.

Brighton Climb and Keep European Hopes Alive

Thanks to this win, Brighton now sit 8th in the table with 58 points — still in the hunt for a European spot. And their dream remains alive largely thanks to one man: Kaoru Mitoma.

Kaoru Mitoma: From Benchwarmer to Brighton Icon

This isn’t the first time Kaoru Mitoma has made an impact off the bench, and likely won’t be the last. His technical skill, composure, and vision make him one of the most dangerous players in the league, even when coming on as a substitute.

The title Man of the Match Kaoru Mitoma is not just a headline — it’s a recognition of brilliance. He’s more than a bench option now. He’s Brighton’s most important game-changer.