Matt O’Riley’s Premier League debut for Brighton & Hove Albion was nothing short of spectacular, as the former Celtic star scored the decisive goal in a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory against Manchester City. Entering the game with Brighton trailing 1-0, O’Riley made an instant impact. Joao Pedro had just leveled the score, and moments later, Pedro assisted O’Riley for a clinical finish past Ederson, handing Brighton a landmark win against the reigning champions.
For O’Riley, this goal was particularly special. Not only did it secure Brighton a vital three points, but it also marked his first competitive goal since his £30 million transfer from Celtic over the summer. This game was also his first appearance since suffering a debut injury in the cup, making his return even more meaningful.
Brighton’s ambitions for European qualification have gained a major boost with O’Riley’s arrival, as he’s expected to play a key role in their midfield. The Dane’s ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes matches underscores his potential as a key figure in the Premier League.
After the final whistle, O’Riley’s Celtic roots were on display in a lighthearted moment. Having grown accustomed to the lively post-match celebrations at Celtic Park, he instinctively began to react in a way that would have felt right at home in Glasgow. Seeing this, a Brighton teammate stepped in to help him adapt to the Seagulls’ celebration style, adding a humorous touch to an already memorable evening.
For Celtic fans, seeing O’Riley thrive at Brighton is a proud moment, as one of their former stars shines on one of football’s biggest stages.
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