Sat Apr 26 17:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Brighton Snatch Late Victory Over West Ham Thanks to Baleba’s Stunning Strike
**Brighton, England –** Carlos Baleba’s sensational injury-time goal secured a thrilling 3-2 victory for Brighton & Hove Albion over West Ham United at the Amex Stadium on Saturday, ending a six-match winless streak for the Seagulls. The young Cameroonian midfielder’s powerful curler from outside the box proved decisive in a match packed with drama and goals.
West Ham took an early lead through Yasin Ayari’s stunning strike, but a second-half comeback saw Mohammed Kudus and Tomas Soucek put the Hammers ahead. Brighton fought back, equalizing through Kaoru Mitoma before Baleba’s late heroics secured all three points.
The match showcased the attacking capabilities of both sides, with both teams struggling for form coming into the game. Jarrod Bowen, West Ham’s standout performer, provided assists for both Kudus and Soucek’s goals. Despite his contributions, Bowen expressed his disappointment after the match, highlighting West Ham’s repeated failure to hold onto leads.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler praised Baleba’s performance, highlighting his impact both offensively and defensively. The 21-year-old’s emergence has filled the void left by previous departures, and his impressive form is attracting attention from top European clubs.
West Ham manager Graham Potter, facing his former club, admitted his team’s inability to maintain their performance levels cost them the match. Despite creating chances and scoring two goals, he acknowledged the team’s struggles to consistently perform at a high level throughout the entire game and the season overall. The defeat leaves West Ham in 17th place, but their Premier League safety is assured following Ipswich’s relegation. Brighton, meanwhile, climbed to ninth in the table.