Before entering the match, Chelsea was rated higher than the opponent not only with a better quality team, but also because of their performance in recent matches.

Trossard opened the scoring for Brighton in the 5th minute. Photo: Reuters

But something unexpected happened.

The loss opened a disastrous match for Chelsea.

Having just had his clean sheet streak cut off by Casemiro in the previous round, Kepa lost three consecutive goals this round.

Havertz in a situation where the Brighton defender was isolated near the touchline.

But Mendy couldn’t save Chelsea either.

Chelsea tried very hard to close the gap in the second half.

Chelsea was helpless against the stubbornness of the host, and had to accept their first loss under Potter.

Potter applauded the fans after Chelsea lost to his old team.

In the next round, Chelsea will battle Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.

Squad

Brighton: Sanchez, Gross, Webster, Dunk (c), Estupinan, March, Mac Allister, Caicedo, Mitoma (Lamptey 72’), Lallana (Enciso 64’), Trossard (Sarmiento 86’)

Chelsea: Kepa (Mendy 46′), Chalobah, Thiago Silva (c), Cucurella (Chilwell 64′), Pulisic (Broja, 79′), Kovacic, Loftus-Cheek, Sterling ((Aubameyang 64′), Mount, Gallagher (