Match Summary
AEK Athens FC defeated Brighton 3:2. The match was played in UEFA Europa League 2023. Goals were scored by D. Sidibé 11′, João Pedro 30′ (pen.), M. Gaćinović 40′, João Pedro 67′ (pen.), E. Ponce 84′. 11 yellow cards were shown. Brighton had 75% possession while AEK Athens FC held 25%. Brighton had 15 shots (7 on target) compared to 11 (6 on target) for AEK Athens FC. Expected goals: Brighton 2.66 — AEK Athens FC 1.28. Brighton made 4 substitutions, AEK Athens FC made 5. VAR was involved: Penalty confirmed (João Pedro 28′), Penalty confirmed (João Pedro 65′).
Match Events
Key match events between Brighton and AEK Athens FC — 5 goals and 11 cards recorded during the match.
assist: E. Hajisafi
Penalty
assist: L. García
Penalty
Match Statistics
Brighton had 75% possession against AEK Athens FC's 25%. Brighton registered 15 shots (7 on target) while AEK Athens FC managed 11 (6 on target). Corner kicks: 11–2. Fouls committed: 8–15.
Lineups
Brighton lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation under R. De Zerbi, while AEK Athens FC deployed a 4-1-4-1 under M. Almeyda.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Brighton is 7.32, compared to 6.96 for AEK Athens FC. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Brighton's highest-rated starter is J. Steele (8.03), while AEK Athens FC's best-rated player is O. Pineda (7.40).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Brighton have contributed 6 goals and 4 assists this season, led by J. van Hecke (3G). AEK Athens FC's starters account for 4 goals and 1 assists, spearheaded by O. Pineda (4G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Brighton deploy 4 defenders rated 7.36 on average, against AEK Athens FC's 4-man backline averaging —. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Brighton field 5 midfielders averaging 6.95, versus AEK Athens FC's 5 rated 6.96. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Brighton start 1 forward(s) averaging —, compared to 1 for AEK Athens FC averaging —. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 84% for Brighton and 52% for AEK Athens FC. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Brighton's starters have collected 12 yellow cards this season, compared to 9 for AEK Athens FC. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Brighton's starting XI is 30.5 (youngest: J. van Hecke (25), oldest: J. Steele (35)), while AEK Athens FC average 28.3 (youngest: G. Mitoglou (26), oldest: M. Gaćinović (30)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Brighton's starters average 16 league appearances each, versus 16 for AEK Athens FC. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Brighton have recorded 4 wins, 0 draws and 2 defeats. AEK Athens FC show 3 wins, 3 draws and 0 losses from their last 6 outings.
Brighton
AEK Athens FC
API data: 15 Mar 2026