Joao Pedro said scoring an 88th-minute winner to help Brighton advance to the Europa League last 16 stage “was the best moment” of his life.
Victory was needed to leapfrog their opponents Marseille and finish first in Group B, as well as to avoid having to navigate the Europa League knockout play-off round.
It looked as if Roberto De Zerbi’s side would be held to a drab goalless draw, but Pedro picked up the ball in Marseille’s box, expertly created space for himself and then drove a shot into the top corner.
Pedro is the top scorer in the Europa League this season with six goals in six group matches and celebrated wildly with the home supporters after his late winner.
“I’m very happy, these are the best moments of my life,” Pedro told the media. “Thank you to my team-mates, they always support me.
“I’m very happy to be top scorer in the Europa League. To be top of the table, in the league or top scorer, you need to keep going through hard work.”
Victory means Brighton will next be in European action in March 2024. The first legs of the play-offs will be played on 15 February 2024, with the second legs on 22 February.
The draw for the round of 16 will be held on 23 February, with the first legs played on 7 March and the second legs taking place on 14 March.
Marseille will also be in the knockout play-off round and face a side who finished third in the Champions League group stages.
