Brighton manager Roberto de Zerbi has hailed Japanese winger Kaoru Mitoma as a "great player" that you "can never substitute" after the young forward scored a late winner in the team's victory over Bournemouth.
The 25-year-old Mitoma's goal was his sixth in the past nine appearances and his seventh in the 2022-23 season, making him the club's joint top scorer.
De Zerbi spoke highly of Mitoma's natural quality, stating that even if he didn't have a fantastic game, you can always expect him to score.
The game was a closely contested match with Bournemouth putting in a strong performance.
The Cherries had several opportunities to take the lead with Jefferson Lerma shooting wide from Jaidon Anthony's cross, while Billy Gilmour fired into the side-netting.
The visitors were also denied a penalty twice during the game, but Mitoma's header in the 87th minute broke Bournemouth's hearts.
More Mitoma magic! 💫 @BrightonTools 📺 pic.twitter.com/7P4fnrnWs6
— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) February 4, 2023
The win moves Brighton up to 6th in the Premier League, while Bournemouth remains in 19th after Everton's victory over Arsenal in the early game.
The Seagulls were without in-form teenager Evan Ferguson due to injury.
As well as Moises Caicedo, who was left out of the starting line-up after trying to force a move away from the club during the January transfer window.
Bournemouth new signings show glimpse of what they have to offer
Bournemouth manager Gary O'Neil handed debuts to January signings Antoine Semenyo and Hamed Traore, with Dango Ouattara making his second appearance in the Premier League.
Although the trio didn't score, their pace, direct running and energy could prove to be a major asset for Bournemouth as they fight to avoid an immediate return to the Championship this season.
Despite the loss, the Cherries put in an improved performance, and their next five league games include matches against Newcastle, Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool.
O'Neil and his team will have to put in a strong effort if they want to climb up the league table and secure their Premier League status for next season.
In conclusion, the victory over Bournemouth was a big win for Brighton and a testament to their attacking prowess.
Kaoru Mitoma continues to prove himself as a valuable player for the club, and his ability to score in clutch moments is a valuable asset.
Bournemouth will have to continue to work hard and put in a strong performance in their next five games if they hope to avoid relegation.
Stats and Reactions
Kaoru Mitoma’s last 7 games in all competitions:
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) February 4, 2023
⚽ vs. Arsenal
⚽ vs. Everton
🅰️ vs. Middlesbrough
❌ vs. Liverpool
⚽ vs. Leicester
⚽ vs. Liverpool
⚽ vs. Bournemouth
Insane form. 💫 pic.twitter.com/uozfmcDEOT
Sunday: 92nd-minute winner vs Liverpool
— Troll Football (@Troll_Fotballl) February 4, 2023
Saturday: 87th-minute winner vs Bournemouth
Remember the name! KAORU MITOMA. pic.twitter.com/6yzwc4afun
Mitoma really recreated it 😭 pic.twitter.com/3358b5JfZj
— SEAGULLS SOCIAL (@SeagullsSocial) February 4, 2023
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