Brighton & Hove Albion delivered a commanding 5-0 victory over Crystal Palace in the latest A23 derby at the Amex Stadium on Sunday, marking their first league win against their rivals since February 2024. The dominant performance saw Brighton extend their unbeaten run and maintain their status as the Premier League’s highest scorers early in the season.
The contest was effectively settled within the opening 10 minutes. Jaydee Canvot’s early own goal set the tone for Palace, who quickly found themselves overwhelmed. Following the own goal, Brighton’s Diego Gómez scored a remarkable 51-metre strike, reminiscent of David Beckham’s style, that left Palace goalkeeper Walter Benítez stranded far off his line. Yasin Ayari then added a third goal shortly before the quarter-hour mark, leaving Palace reeling and struggling to contain Brighton’s fluid attacking play.
Palace, managed by Pierre Sage since the summer, fielded a notably youthful defense, including teenagers Honest Ahanor and Canvot, a decision that drew criticism as the backline was repeatedly exposed. The visitors have conceded more goals than any other Premier League club this season, and the result intensified concerns over their defensive frailties. Sage acknowledged the team’s poor start and expressed remorse over the performance, stating, “It’s not my decision” whether he will remain in charge and apologizing to fans. Reports suggest internal tensions at Selhurst Park, with chairman Steve Parish reportedly considering managerial changes amid growing fan unrest.
Brighton’s momentum continued in the second half as Charalampos Kostoulas capitalized on a deflected shot to make it 4-0 shortly after the interval. Substitute Jack Hinshelwood later scored to complete the rout, matching Brighton’s record 5-0 win over Palace, a result not seen since 1956. Despite Palace’s attempts to respond—highlighted by efforts from Jean-Philippe Mateta and Eddie Nketiah—their attack lacked cohesion, and their defense remained porous.
Brighton coach Fabian Hürzeler, who endured criticism after a loss to Palace in February, praised his players’ resilience and progression. “Now we sit here in a completely different mood, with a feeling of being really proud,” he said. Hürzeler emphasized the team’s versatility in scoring from various avenues, including set pieces, wing play, and long-range shooting. His side has now won four consecutive Premier League matches without conceding, a first in the club’s history, and climbed to third place in the league standings behind Manchester City and Arsenal.
The match took place under heavy rain, with heightened security measures in place due to the heated rivalry between the two clubs. Although the visiting fans started to leave early as the match slipped decisively away from Palace, the home crowd celebrated a comprehensive triumph that showcased Brighton’s attacking prowess and raised questions regarding Palace’s defensive stability and managerial future.
Looking ahead, Brighton face challenging fixtures against Liverpool and Manchester City, while Palace must address their defensive issues if they are to improve their position in the league. The outcome of this fixture has intensified scrutiny on Sage’s management and the club’s direction moving forward.