Pedro double not enough as Brighton lose to AEK Athens
The 1,500-strong travelling support didn’t need to wait long for something to cheer about, as AEK quickly brought Brighton down to Earth after their 3-1 win at Old Trafford last time out.
The Greek side found the back of the net with their first shot on target when Ehsan Hajsafi’s corner was met by Djibril Sidibé’s powerful header, leaving Jason Steele with no chance.
Perhaps feeling the pressure of their European bow, the Seagulls were off the pace and could have been further behind were it not for Steele’s quick reactions to smother Levi García’s effort.
However, Brighton earned a penalty thanks to João Pedro’s quick feet, and once the yellow card for simulation was overturned, the Brazilian sent Cican Stanković the wrong way from the spot to score a historic goal for the Seagulls - their first-ever in European competition.
As momentous as that was, parity lasted just 10 minutes as Cican Stanković restored his side’s lead, sliding in to direct a deep free-kick goalwards from the edge of the box.
Considering the aggregate score of 16-3 in favour of English opposition ahead of kick-off, AEK fans would have been suitably content with the HT scoreline.
Despite seeing less of the ball, the visitors were good value for the lead, and continued in a similar vein after the break.
A lengthy stoppage for an unfortunate injury to captain Hajsafi seemed to turn the tide and a second penalty was awarded Brighton’s way.
Just like the first, Pedro was eventually awarded the spot-kick after a VAR review, and again, made no mistake, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way.
Back on level terms for a second time, the hosts raised the tempo in search of the lead, but once again, AEK hit back.
A long ball opened Brighton up, allowing Ezequiel Ponce to exchange passes with Niclas Eliasson, before the Argentine finished off the move with a low strike.
The home side searched for a late winner during a long stoppage time, but AEK held out for three important points to kickstart their UEFA Europa League campaign.
Having been in such strong league form with four wins from their last five, it’s a difficult defeat to take for Roberto De Zerbi’s side, whose last 10 competitive matches have featured goals from both teams.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Levi García (AEK Athens)
