Brighton fight back to beat Stoke

Joao Pedro's late brace secured a comeback 4-2 victory for Brighton, preventing an FA Cup upset at Championship side Stoke.

The hosts took the lead in the 16th minute when Jan Paul van Hecke of Brighton inadvertently turned Bae Jun-Ho's low cross into his own net. 

However, the Seagulls staged a comeback with a remarkable goal from full-back Pervis Estupinan on the stroke of half-time and a close-range header from captain Lewis Dunk shortly after the break.

Lewis Baker levelled with a penalty in the 63rd minute due to a handball by Dunk, but Brighton maintained control of possession. 

In the aftermath of repelling another attack into their penalty area, Joao Pedro capitalised on Pascal Gross' precise chip, heading it home. 

The Brazilian then sealed the victory by sliding in to convert Van Hecke's low cross past Daniel Iversen.

Brighton, who reached the semi-finals last season, are still competing in three competitions, having advanced to the last 16 of the Europa League. 

This defeat marks Stoke's first since Steve Schumacher assumed charge last month, although their primary objective remains securing their status in the second tier.