Burnley host Brighton in what is a very important game for both the race for European football and the battle to survive relegation in the Premier League.
Date: 13/04/24
Kick-off time: 15:00
Venue: Turf Moor
The Seagulls have endured a mixed season, but they are still in the hunt to achieve European football for the second season in a row. They currently occupy 10th place, but are just five points off West Ham who are in seventh. A victory this weekend would see them climb the table should results go their way. However, defeat could see them fall further behind and leave them with an uphill battle given there is so little time remaining.
Vincent Kompany’s side recently enjoyed a four-game unbeaten run before last weekend’s defeat at Everton. It had given them momentum and hopes of catching those above them, but the latest loss was a significant setback, especially as it was against a side who they are looking to chase. They are still 19th, and are six points from safety with six games to go. Three points against Brighton would renew some optimism, but a loss would most likely condemn them to an immediate return to the Championship.
With two in their last five league games, Brighton have been struggling for goals. Their opponents have scored seven in the same period, but have not kept a clean sheet since December, offering the visitors a chance to get back on track offensively. Joao Pedro is Roberto De Zerbi’s top scorer, and his recent return from injury has given him a very timely boost. Burnley have four players on four goals, most notably January loan signing David Datro Fofana, who has reached that tally in just nine games.
These two sides have met 11 times in the Premier League. Burnley have slightly edged it, winning three games to two, with six draws. Three of these draws ended goalless. The reverse fixture earlier this season took place in early December, and the points were shared in the 1-1 draw. Wilson Odobert gave the visitors the lead, but this was cancelled out by Brighton’s Simon Adingra with just over 10 minutes to play.