Brighton and Hove Albion began their UEFA Conference League campaign with a commanding 4-0 victory over Lithuanian side Kauno Zalgiris, with Georginio Rutter scoring twice at the Amex Stadium.

The Seagulls dominated proceedings against their visitors, who struggled to create meaningful attacking opportunities, although Brighton had to wait until the 41st minute to break the deadlock.

Rutter opened the scoring by converting Ibrahim Osman's pullback.

The goal was initially ruled out after officials believed the ball had crossed the touchline, but the decision was overturned following a video assistant referee review.

Brighton doubled their advantage just before half-time when Rutter turned provider, setting up Jack Hinshelwood to score with a first-time finish.

The midfielder was making his return after nearly two months out with an ankle injury.

The hosts maintained their dominance after the restart, with Hinshelwood forcing another save from the Kauno Zalgiris goalkeeper with a header.

Rutter then grabbed his second goal of the night and Brighton's third, finishing another assist from Osman to put the result beyond doubt.

Matt O'Riley had struck the post earlier in the second half but soon found the net, heading home a cross from 18-year-old Egyptian midfielder Younes Ibrahim, who was making his Brighton debut.

The victory continued Brighton's impressive scoring form at home in European competition.

They have now scored eight goals across two home matches in the 2026-27 campaign.

Brighton reached the league phase after overcoming Norwegian side Tromso in a two-legged play-off in August.

Following a goalless first-leg draw away from home, they secured a 4-0 victory in the return fixture.

The English side will turn their attention to Sunday's meeting with rivals Crystal Palace before travelling to the Czech Republic next Thursday to face Jablonec in their next Conference League fixture.

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