Brighton & Hove Albion advanced to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup with an impressive 6-0 victory against Barnsley on September 24. The man of the match by a landslide was Diego Gomez, who found the net four times — chief among them, a brilliant first-half hat-trick. Brighton’s victory was their fifth move into the last 16 of the competition in only six years. With this accomplishment, they further prove themselves a serious and strong contender.
The game was on the home ground of Barnsley FC, Oakwell Stadium, and Gomez didn’t waste any time letting everyone know he was there. He scored the opening goal with a thumping strike, and that was truly the beginning of Brighton’s tone-setting scoring spree. He netted his second goal just seconds later. Then with an exquisite long range effort to the upper right corner, he put on a display of his otherworldly talent. The 23-yarder completed Gomez’s hat-trick in just 22 minutes, as he sent the Barnsley defense scrambling with yet another thunderous strike from range.
A First-Half Frenzy
Brighton controlled the opening stages of the match, as Diego Gomez ensured they started with intensity. His opening goal, a thunderous opener in the 10th minute, sent Brighton into the lead. The home team’s defense had no answer for Gomez’s speed and accuracy.
Just ten minutes later, he struck again. He expertly weaved into open space on the right. Then with one magical touch, he released a masterful strike that rippled the netting in the goal. The crowd went crazy as Gomez proved his scoring ability.
Gomez’s hat-trick was completed just shortly after, cementing his place as one of the early players to watch this season. His third goal was his long-range effort, which showed his full confidence and skill.
“We’re very pleased for him. He always tries hard in every training session to improve. You always knew he had an unbelievable shot.” – Fabian Hurzeler
Continued Dominance and Team Structure
After halftime, Brighton maintained their momentum. In the 68th minute, Gomez capped his performance by netting his fourth with a tidy low finish. He got it into a great position after receiving a perfectly timed through-ball from Danny Welbeck. This goal marked the 95th minute but cemented Brighton’s dominance on the match.
Collectively, the team’s performance was overwhelming from the opening whistle through the second half. While Brighton clearly showcased their attacking talent, they proved that they’re more than capable defensively. It was a beautifully crafted goal but overall the players just flowed together making multiple chances and destroying Barnsley’s options.
“Especially in the second half, the boys did a good job, they had a good structure, they created chances, scored goals and were good in defence.” – Fabian Hurzeler
When the game ended, Gomez was replaced by Harry Howell to a standing ovation from the fans. His emotionally charged performance that night and all season long had won him the respect, admiration and loyalty of fans and teammates.
Looking Ahead
Sky Sports will show the live draw for the Carabao Cup fourth round on September 24. We hope you’re as excited as we are for these matches, set to take place during the week of October 27! Brighton’s confidence will be high after their 6-0 hammering of Barnsley, which followed an equally dominant 6-0 victory over Oxford in the last round of this competition.
Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler revealed his delight at Gomez’s display, commending the midfielder’s shape and intention.
“We are pleased we had Diego in such unbelievable shape tonight, unbelievable goals and these helped us get better and better into the game.” – Fabian Hurzeler
The team looks to build on their success in the world cup tournament. They’re using their momentum well and doing everything humanly possible to capitalize on Gomez’s all-time amazing performance.
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