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Match report: Kiko Seike 1 goal 1 assist as Brighton beat Leicester 4-1
Overview
Brighton & Hove Albion Women recorded a convincing 4-1 victory over Leicester City Women in the Women’s Super League Round 9 at home. Japanese forward Kiko Seike stood out with 1 goal and 1 assist, marking her fifth goal of the season and playing a pivotal role in Brighton’s attacking performance. Three Japanese players were involved in the matchday squad, and their contributions added depth to Brighton’s game plan.
Lineup and Japanese players
Brighton started with Kiko Seike at center forward, providing the team with hold-up play and incisive movement. Minori Minami (南萌華) occupied the center-back role, delivering a composed defensive display, while Fuka Kakuta (角田楓佳) began on the bench. The trio of Japanese players highlighted Brighton’s diverse roster, allowing tactical flexibility for both buildup and transitions.
First half and Seike's assist
Early in the match Leicester created a few dangerous moments, but goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie made key saves to keep Brighton in control. At 25 minutes Seike struck a volley that came off the crossbar — a sign of her attacking intent. Two minutes later Brighton turned possession into opportunity: after a successful press and turnover in the opponent’s half, the ball was played quickly to Seike, whose intelligent hold-up and layoff created space for Madison Haley to finish and open the scoring.
Second half scoring and Leicester reply
Right after the restart Brighton extended their lead. The team overloaded the left flank and finished through Maelys Mpomé, making it 2-0. Late in the match Leicester responded when Shannon O’Brien capitalized on a defensive mistake to bring the score to 2-1, injecting tension into the closing stages.
Late goals and Seike's decisive finish
Brighton answered Leicester’s goal through Marisa Olislagers, who struck from outside the box to restore a two-goal cushion. In stoppage time, a quick set-piece led to a powerful shot saved by the Leicester keeper; Seike reacted fastest to the rebound and tapped home to seal a 4-1 victory. Her performance—1 goal, 1 assist—underlined both her composure and attacking instincts in crucial moments.
Player analysis and tactical notes
Seike’s role as a central striker combined hold-up play, physicality, and sharp finishing. Her assist demonstrated spatial awareness and an ability to combine under pressure. Defensively, Minori Minami provided structure in the backline and helped limit Leicester’s opportunities. Brighton’s use of width and quick transitions were decisive, although the team must tighten possession in build-up to avoid conceding counter chances as seen in the 75th minute.
What this win means and outlook
The 4-1 victory boosts Brighton’s confidence and signals that the team can rely on its Japanese contingent for key moments. Seike’s continued scoring form will be important for Brighton’s ambitions in the WSL. Maintaining defensive concentration and converting early domination into more controlled chances will be crucial as the season progresses.
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