Brighton & Hove Albion, after their impressive sixth-placed finish in the Premier League last season, are embarking on their maiden European campaign.
Match Preview:
The journey commences with a crucial encounter against AEK Athens in the opening match of the Europa League group stage.
The Seagulls had concerns following the departure of their manager, Graham Potter, for Chelsea in September.
However, Roberto De Zerbi stepped in and guided them to an outstanding performance, securing 49 points and clinching the final Europa League spot, edging out Aston Villa.
Building on their record-high top division finish, Brighton has had a strong start to the new league campaign, accumulating nine points from four matches before the international break.
Their attacking prowess has been on display, ranking as the best in the Premier League with 15 goals.
Returning from the break with momentum and excitement surrounding their European debut, Brighton is eager to kick off the group stage with a three-point victory against AEK Athens on home turf.
AEK Athens, having earned a place in the Europa League after a successful Greek Super League campaign, is set to face the challenge of Brighton in this opening clash.
The Greek outfit is keen to make an impact and garner points as they begin their European journey.
Team News:
Brighton & Hove Albion might see some potential rotations from their recent victory over Manchester United. Winger Julio Enciso is sidelined due to injury, alongside key players Pervis Estupinan and Solly March.
Evan Ferguson, a prominent figure in Brighton’s attack, is expected to start, accompanied by Joao Pedro. Ansu Fati, the Barcelona loanee, is likely to make his first start. In midfield, Mahmoud Dahoud and Pascal Gross are anticipated to partner up once again.
AEK Athens, on the other hand, is grappling with injuries, with key players like Mijat Gacinovic, Paolo Fernandes, and Rodolfo Pizarro sidelined. The availability of experienced defender Domagoj Vida remains uncertain for the starting lineup.
Possible Starting Lineups:
Brighton & Hove Albion:
Verbruggen;
Veltman, Van Hecke, Dunk, Lamptey;
Dahoud, Gross;
Adingra, Pedro, Fati;
Ferguson
AEK Athens:
Stankovic;
Rota, Mitoglou, Moukoudi, Mohammadi;
Eliasson, Szymanski, Jonsson, Amrabat;
Araujo, Ponce
Stay tuned for the thrilling clash as Brighton & Hove Albion take on AEK Athens in their inaugural Europa League match, aiming for a victorious start to their European journey.
