6 duels won: Liverpool colossus had his ‘best 45 minutes for the club’ as Reds see off Brighton

In a dominant 3-0 FA Cup fourth-round victory over Brighton at Anfield on February 14, 2026, Liverpool's Milos Kerkez delivered his standout performance since joining the club, earning rave reviews for his exceptional first-half display[1][2].

The Hungarian left-back, wearing number 6, was a colossus on the flank, winning 6 duels—including 4/5 ground duels and 2/2 aerials—while completing 92% of his passes (12/13), making 3 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 2 clearances. His best 45 minutes for Liverpool featured tireless overlapping runs that pinned back Brighton's attack, allowing Liverpool's midfield to flourish[4]. Pundits hailed Kerkez's "unreal energy and defensive solidity," noting he "bossed Evan Ferguson" and covered every blade of grass[1].

Liverpool cruised to the fifth round with goals from Curtis Jones (42'), who slotted home after a slick move; Dominik Szoboszlai (56'), capping a superb counter; and Mohamed Salah (68' pen), blasting past Jason Steele in front of the Kop[2][7]. Salah starred again, assisting Jones and converting the spot-kick after a handball[6].

Under Arne Slot, a confident Reds side outclassed high-quality opposition despite injuries to Wataru Endo, Conor Bradley, and others[3]. Kerkez's line-up included Becker in goal, alongside van Dijk, Konaté, Jones, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Gakpo, Wirtz, Salah, and Chiesa[4]. Subs like Gravenberch and Robertson added depth.

Brighton, missing Baleba, Webster, and March, struggled against Liverpool's press. Kerkez's second-half fade was excused amid rotation, but his opening period set the tone for a statement win. Fans chanted his name as Liverpool advanced, with Slot praising the "complete performance" led by the £40m summer signing's brilliance[7].

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