Kaoru Mitoma made history on Monday by becoming the first Japanese player to score 10 goals in a single English Premier League season. His crucial contribution helped Brighton rally from behind to defeat champions Liverpool 3-2 at home.
Brighton was trailing 2-1 when Mitoma entered the match in the 65th minute. Just four minutes later, he equalized in spectacular fashion. After Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson parried Danny Welbeck’s shot, Mitoma calmly volleyed the bouncing ball into the net with his left foot.
Japan’s national team captain, Wataru Endo, was brought on by Liverpool in the 77th minute to try and contain his fellow countryman. However, Mitoma remained a constant threat. His brilliant play down the left flank in the 85th minute led to Brighton’s winning goal. He released Matt O’Riley, who crossed for substitute Jack Hinshelwood to tap in the decisive strike.
“It was our last home game of the season, and we needed a win,” said Mitoma, who turns 28 on Tuesday. “I was aiming for more goals, but this is just the minimum.”
Liverpool had taken an early lead when Harvey Elliott scored in the ninth minute. Brighton leveled in the 32nd minute thanks to Yasin Ayari’s well-worked finish. Dominik Szoboszlai restored Liverpool’s advantage just before halftime with a cross that curled directly into the far corner.
Mitoma is now the fourth Japanese player to reach double-digit goals in Europe’s top leagues this season. Keito Nakamura (Reims, 11 goals in Ligue 1), Shuto Machino (Holstein Kiel, 11 in Bundesliga), and Ritsu Doan (Freiburg, 10 in Bundesliga) have also achieved the feat.
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