Spurs secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Villarreal in the Champions League, thanks to an early own goal by Luiz Junior. This win marked a welcome return to form for Thomas Frank’s team. The decisive moment can be viewed on Tottenham’s official X handle:
This win was particularly noteworthy as it was Tottenham’s first match in Europe’s premier club competition since they were eliminated by AC Milan in the last-16 stage of the 2022–23 season. Now, their attention shifts back to the domestic league, where Brighton will provide a tough challenge on their home ground.
Softfootball reports that Brighton, managed by Fabian Hurzeler, has had a mixed start to the season. They experienced an impressive 2-1 victory over Manchester City but followed it up with a disappointing league loss of the same score against Bournemouth last weekend. Their League Cup campaign, however, has been more successful, highlighted by a dominant 6-0 win against Oxford United. Yet, in the league, Brighton has also faced setbacks with a draw against Fulham and a loss to Everton.
Despite their inconsistency, Brighton remains a formidable opponent at the Amex Stadium. Tottenham will recall their struggle last season as the Seagulls managed to secure a league double over them, including a 3-2 win on their home turf.
For context, here is a clip of Brighton’s goals as showcased on their official X handle:
Injury updates
Tottenham will be anxiously monitoring the situation of Dominic Solanke, who was absent for the match against Villarreal due to an ankle injury. Frank has stated that the absence is not expected to be prolonged, but Solanke’s availability for the match against Brighton remains uncertain. Spurs are also dealing with several long-term injuries, including those of James Maddison, Radu Draugsin, Dejan Kulusevski, and Kota Takai. Additionally, midfielder Yves Bissouma has been sidelined with a minor issue, raising questions about his future at the club.
Brighton is also managing injury issues with key players Adam Webster and Solly March sidelined due to significant knee injuries. Summer recruit Mats Wieffer may also miss out with similar concerns. Left-back Maxim de Cuyper picked up an injury against Bournemouth and will need to be assessed ahead of the Tottenham fixture.
If both sides can field their preferred lineups, Brighton may start with Verbruggen in goal, supported by a defense of Veltman, Van Hecke, Dunk, and Kadioglu. Veteran James Milner is expected to play a central role in midfield alongside Baleba, while the attacking trio of Minteh, Rutter, and Mitoma will support forward Danny Welbeck. Tottenham, on the other hand, is likely to have Vicario in goal, with Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, and Udogie forming the defense. Palhinha and Bentancur are anticipated to pair up in midfield, while Bergvall, Kudus, Richarlison, and Simons will provide attacking options.
This matchup promises to be a keenly contested affair with both teams possessing quality and an ability to surprise. Spurs aim to keep their winning streak alive and avoid repeating last season’s losses, while Brighton seeks to achieve consistency and capitalise on their home advantage. The matchup is scheduled for 3pm BST on Thursday, September 18, 2025, potentially serving as a key early indicator for both teams.
Possible lineup
Brighton: Verbruggen, Veltman, Van Hecke, Dunk, Kadioglu, Milner, Baleba, Minteh, Rutter, Mitoma, Welbeck
Tottenham: Vicario, Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie, Palhinha, Bentancur, Bergvall, Kudus, Richarlison, Simons
Possible result:
Brighton 1-1 Tottenham
