Brighton v Manchester United Tips: Peter Galindo predicts a stalemate on Thursday

In a rematch of the FA Cup semi-final, Brighton will face Manchester United on Thursday in a game that will go some way to determining the European spots in the Premier League. Football expert Peter Galindo previews the enticing match-up.

Gross Goals

After losing to United on penalties in the FA Cup semi-final, Brighton unceremoniously fell 3-1 to Nottingham Forest. That could have been the beginning of the end in what has been a marvellous season for Roberto De Zerbi’s men. 

But Brighton nipped that in the bud by crushing Wolves 6-0 last weekend. Three players completed their brace in the win and crucially kept the Seagulls in the race for European football.

Pascal Gross was part of the trio of goalscorers, which means the German has now been involved in four goals in his last five league matches. Thanks to his versatility, Gross has been able to fill in at a number of positions - most notably full-back and in midfield - so wherever he starts, he is bound to be involved one way or another.

On the road again

Brighton’s home form this season has been decent with 27 points secured from 15 matches, while Manchester United’s away record has left a lot to be desired. The Red Devils have posted six defeats away from Old Trafford this season and that factor shouldn’t be overlooked.

That being said, United have been a lot more stingy of late. All of their injuries have coincided with keeping an array of clean sheets (five in their last seven Premier League matches), and under 2.5 goals has cashed in six games during that time frame.

Revenge served?

As already mentioned the last meeting between these two sides was a cup semi-final, so it’s understandable that it was a cagey affair. However, both sides have a slew of injuries to deal with and plenty on the line, which could add entertainment this time around.

United’s injuries have been well-publicised at this point, although they do have Harry Maguire fit again. Meanwhile, Brighton might be without Joel Veltman after he limped off against Wolves. On the bright side for Brighton, Kaoru Mitoma, Moises Caicedo and Alexis MacAllister will be in contention for a starting spot after sitting on the bench for the opening half in their last game.

Although we might see more goalmouth action this time around, don’t be surprised to witness another stalemate between two sides who are very evenly matched. 1-1 is my scoreline prediction.

Brighton v Manchester United Tips

Draw @ 3.95
Under 2.5 Goals @ 2.6
Exactly one second-half goal @ 3.05