Brighton take on the visitors Luton in the round 1 match of English Premier League. The match will be played on Saturday, August 12th at Amex Stadium (Brighton).
At the end of the previous season, Brighton made it to European competitions for the first time in their history, securing a high sixth place in the Premier League. It was a true triumph! Neither the change of the head coach during the season nor the departures of several key players hindered the Seagulls from surprising everyone in the championship. In terms of attacking quality, Brighton became one of the best teams in the league. The team prefers an open style of play, likes to attack, and allows opponents to do the same. As a result, the goal difference in 38 Premier League matches was 72-53. In the match against the modest debutant, Luton Town, the Seagulls are clear favorites, but at least once the hosts are capable of conceding.
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Luton Town performed a real miracle last season. Despite a limited budget and not having highly-rated players, the team finished the regular Championship season in a high third place. Then, through the play-offs, they sensationally secured a place in English football's elite. In the semifinals, the Hatters overcame Sunderland with an aggregate score of 3-2 (1-2 and 2-0). In the final, after a 1-1 draw in regular time, they won against Coventry City in a penalty shootout. It's unlikely that the modest squad will be able to establish itself in the Premier League, as its roster appears relatively weak even compared to teams that will potentially fight for survival. However, scoring at least one goal against Brighton, which is accustomed to playing openly, is well within the capabilities of the league debutant.
In preparation for the new Premier League season, Luton Town played six friendly matches and managed to score in at least five of them. Just before the start of the championship, the Hatters had back-to-back friendlies against German side Bochum, ending in a 1-2 loss and a 2-1 victory. During the summer, Brighton participated in four friendly matches and managed to keep a clean sheet only once. In other cases, the Seagulls conceded goals, with a draw against Rayo Vallecano (1-1), losses to Chelsea (3-4), and Newcastle (1-2). While the hosts are clear favorites in the match against the Hatters, it might be unwise to take their negative handicap. However, considering a goal from the guests at an excellent coefficient seems reasonable to me. Luton's players are capable of catching their opponent on the counter-attack at least once.
Prediction for the match: Luton to score – yes.
