As we delve into the knockout stages of the 2023/24 UEFA Europa League, one team that has caught everyone’s attention is Brighton & Hove Albion.
The Seagulls, in their seventh consecutive season in the Premier League, have managed to fly high in European competition, sparking debates over their potential to lift the trophy.
Oddschecker, which compares odds and free bets on European football, shows them as a genuine contender. The site brings together betting options and promotions from the most popular online bookmakers, so is a fairly accurate collation of football markets.
But can that prediction turn into a reality?
The Group Stage
Brighton’s journey through the group stages was nothing short of sensational. They topped a difficult-looking Group B ahead of French giants Marseille and Dutch record champions Ajax, securing 13 points in the process.
Although they slumped to a shocking defeat to fourth-placed AEK Athens at the Amex on matchday one, their performances improved no end as the competition progressed. Their biggest highlight was a last-gasp win over Les Phocéens that saw Joao Pedro net a late winner.
Their success in the group stage was a team effort. Brighton displayed a robust defensive line and an attacking front that knew when to strike.
The performance of Roberto De Zerbi’s men in the group stages has not only won them a place in the knockouts, but also the respect and admiration of the rest of the continent.
The Impending Knockout Stage
However, the knockout stages pose a different kind of challenge as the South Coast club comes up against some of the best teams in Europe. Brighton’s real test begins now, and it will be fascinating to see how they navigate through these challenging waters.
One of the potential threats could come in the form of compatriots West Ham, who topped Group A with 15 points. The Hammers have had an excellent run in the tournament so far, and their balanced squad could pose a significant challenge.
West Ham also have plenty of pedigree on the continental stage, as demonstrated when they reached the semi finals two years ago, as well as winning the Europa Conference League last term.
Another team to watch out for is Rangers, who topped their group ahead of Sparta Prague and Real Betis. The Scottish giants have a rich history in European competitions, and their experience might prove crucial in the knockout stages.
They have twice been defeated in the final in recent years, losing to Eintracht Frankfurt on penalties in 2022 and Zenit Saint-Petersburg back in 2008.
Brighton’s journey so far has been commendable, but the road ahead in the Europa League is fraught with challenges. The knockout stages are a different ball game altogether. The stakes are higher and the margin for error is razor-thin.
Plus, there are not only teams such as West Ham and Rangers but also genuine continental heavyweights. Premier League leaders Liverpool are the overwhelming favourites for glory.
They have reached three UEFA Champions League Finals since 2018, winning one of them. Jurgen Klopp has announced that he will be leaving the club at the end of the current campaign, and you can bet your bottom dollar that he will want to sign off with as many trophies as possible.
If that wasn’t bad enough, last year’s beaten Champions League semi finalists AC Milan have also dropped down a level, and they too will provide stiff competition.
