Kaoru Mitoma scored the opener following good work from Yankuba Minteh, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin controversially denied a penalty by VAR.
Brighton sealed their comprehensive victory with goals from Danny Welbeck and Simon Adringa, as fans emptied out of Goodison Park, unsurprising to manager Sean Dyche.
Dyche told BBC Sport on 17 August via EFC Daily: “It feels like reality at this football club. If you’re not doing well and you’re not winning, that’s what happens.”
Everton lost to Brighton on the opening day
For the first time in a long while, Everton fans entered the 2024/25 season with a sense of optimism after a summer of smart signings to bolster the squad.
Tim Iroegbunam was the sole summer recruit to start the match on Saturday 17 August, with Jake O’Brien, Jasper Lindstrom, and Illiman Ndiaye on the bench.
If the penalty decision had gone in the Blues’ favor, there is every chance that the Goodison Park atmosphere would have spurred them to victory.
However, any hope of a comeback ended when Ashley Young received a red card midway through the second half.
The result, although disappointing, is not the end of the world for Everton. There is still plenty to look forward to this season.
However, it serves as a reminder that the Blues are still far from challenging higher up the Premier League table.
Dyche will continue to be active in the transfer market until the 30 August deadline.
He has already earmarked Barcelona striker Vitor Roque and AS Roma midfielder Edoardo Bove as potential final pieces to the puzzle, according to Di Marzio.
Everton fans hope on-field performances this season will distract from off-field uncertainties surrounding the club’s long-term future.
All eyes will turn to Tottenham next Saturday, 24 August, for a chance to erase the disappointment of the Brighton result.
