Brighton's Thrilling 2-2 Draw with Marseille in Europa League

 Brighton's Thrilling 2-2 Draw with Marseille in Europa League

Jonathan Clauss of Olympique De Marseille plays the ball as Kaoru Mitoma and Ansu Fati of Brighton close in during the UEFA Europa League Group B match between Olympique de Marseille and Brighton & Hove Albion at Stade de Marseille on October 05, 2023 in Marseille, France.(Image-Getty)

In an exhilarating Europa League Group B clash, Brighton & Hove Albion staged a remarkable comeback, scoring twice in the second half, including a late penalty, to salvage a 2-2 draw against Olympique de Marseille.

Despite falling behind by two goals, Brighton achieved their first-ever point in European football, although they remained at the bottom of the group with just one point. At the top of the standings, AEK Athens held their position with four points following a 1-1 draw against Ajax Amsterdam.

Marseille took an early lead when Chancel Mbemba calmly found the far corner of the net. Brighton's troubles deepened soon after as defender Lewis Dunk failed to clear the ball, allowing Amine Harit to deliver a precise low cross to Jordan Veretout, who skillfully guided the ball beneath Brighton goalkeeper Jason Steele.

Brighton, however, breathed new life into the match as midfielder Pascal Gross scored with a side-footed finish after 54 minutes, courtesy of Kaoru Mitoma's cutback.

The English side dominated the latter stages of the game and clinched a lifeline with a penalty two minutes from time. Jonathan Clauss fouled Tariq Lamptey, and Joao Pedro confidently converted from the spot.

In Group A, West Ham United continued their impressive start with a 2-1 victory over SC Freiburg, with Lucas Paqueta and Nayef Aguerd finding the net for the London club. With six points, David Moyes' team topped the group, leaving Freiburg trailing with three points.

Meanwhile, Atalanta secured a 2-1 victory against Sporting in Portugal, taking the lead in Group D with two early goals.

In a challenging start for interim manager Steven Davis, Rangers suffered a 2-1 defeat to Aris Limassol in Cyprus.

Real Betis clinched a 2-1 home victory against Sparta Prague, thanks to a late goal from Isco.