Oct 16, 2026 3:36 PM
The midfield masterclass of Malick Yalcouyé and Pascal Groß fuelled a dominant display, while Georginio Rutter’s clinical finishing and a crop of rising starlets signalled a bright future.
Brighton and Hove Albion continued their impressive form with a monster win over Žalgiris Kaunas. Although the competition was very minimal, there were still some very encouraging signs to take from the game.
1. Malick Yalcouyé and Pascal Groß are elite-level midfielders
It goes down as another stellar performance from the midfield duo. Yalcouyé was called up late to the Albion squad, but how he delivered was something else. Energetic, creating chances, and superb on the ball. Paired alongside Groß, it felt like there was a perfect blend between old-school class and newfound greatness.
Groß largely dictated the game's pace. Chances went through him, and his passing was excellent. Most importantly, in the ground he covered, it was like having a manager on the pitch. The German legend has a tendency to appear like a coach with his influence on the side, and there really are no surprises in how he has improved the Seagulls since his return to the side.
2. Brighton's star production line continues
It was truly great to see some upcoming youngsters on the pitch for the Seagulls. Finally, Albion fans are seeing the next phase of young players preparing for the future, something that just feels like it has been lacking since Hürzeler arrived at the club, though not all fault of his own.
Younes Ibrahim will get the plaudits, as should Ibrahim Osman. The Ibrahim duo were excellent yesterday. Omsan grabbed two very good assists, looking energetic at the byline and taking on players at every opportunity.
Ibrahim also earned an assist shortly after coming on. The 18-year-old sensation from Blackburn has been highly rated internally and proved exactly why with his short cameo last night.
3. Georginio Rutter can be clinical in front of goal
We all know how great a player Georginio is for Albion, but maybe we don't appreciate him in front of goal enough.
Clinical yesterday, and both goals came from his right foot. Impressive for a 'naturally' left-footed player, although we all know how two-footed he is now. Finding himself in the right place at the right time, with his positioning and his ability to take on his man, was a lethal combination, and the Zalgiris players couldn't live with him.
Georginio looked like he enjoyed himself, and when he does, he is a joy to watch. Albion have found a way to get the best out of him so far this season.
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