Brighton Hove Albion claimed a hard-fought 1-0 away win over Getafe in the UEFA Europa Conference League on 6 November 2026, with Joao Pedro’s second-half goal settling a tight and tactically demanding contest. Getafe defended in numbers and threatened on the counter, but Brighton’s patience and quality in the final third eventually told.

Match overview

Getafe began with a familiar low block, inviting Brighton to play through them while keeping compact lines in central areas. Brighton enjoyed the majority of possession but found it difficult to create clear openings early on. The hosts’ best moments came from quick transitions, with Borja Mayoral testing the goalkeeper from a header and Mauro Arambarri snapping into challenges in midfield.

The decisive moment came in the 51st minute. Kaoru Mitoma worked space on the left and delivered a low cutback toward the penalty spot, where Joao Pedro arrived to guide the ball home. Getafe responded with more urgency and pushed bodies forward, but Brighton’s back line held firm. A late penalty appeal from the hosts was waved away, and Brighton managed the remaining minutes with maturity.

Key moments

• 12’ – Save: Getafe’s Borja Mayoral heads toward goal, but Bart Verbruggen saves comfortably.
• 51’ – Goal, Brighton: Joao Pedro finishes from close range after Kaoru Mitoma’s cutback.
• 67’ – Penalty appeal: Getafe players appeal for a handball, but the referee is unmoved.
• 83’ – Save: David Soria keeps Getafe in the game with a strong stop from a Brighton counter.
• 90+4’ – Final chance: Getafe send a long ball into the box, but Brighton clear.

Tactical story

Brighton’s patience was central to the result. Rather than forcing passes into crowded central areas, they used width and switches of play to pull Getafe’s defensive block apart. Lewis Dunk led the back line with authority, stepping into midfield when needed and winning important aerial duels. Getafe’s counter-attacking plan was clear, but their final pass lacked precision in the key moments. The introduction of fresh legs from the bench helped Brighton see out the game.

Standout performers

Joao Pedro took his goal well and worked tirelessly in pressing situations. Mitoma’s direct running created the assist, while Dunk’s defensive leadership was vital in the closing stages. Getafe goalkeeper David Soria produced several important saves to keep the scoreline close, and Mayoral carried the hosts’ biggest attacking threat.

What the result means

Brighton take three important points from a difficult away fixture and strengthen their position in the UEFA Europa Conference League standings. Getafe remain without a win in this fixture but will take heart from a disciplined defensive display. For Brighton, the result is another sign of their growing ability to manage European matches with control and composure.