Dunk was crucial for the Seagulls in the tense atmosphere of the Marseille Vélodrome, as Brighton handed themselves a lifeline by recovering from behind to draw 2-2 away to Marseille, avoiding a second consecutive European defeat.
Marseille strikers Chancel Mbemba and Jordan Veretout scored in quick succession before Pascal Gross equalized and Joao Pedro scored from the penalty spot in the 88th minute to complete the comeback.
Despite earning a point, Brighton remain bottom of Group B when Ajax drew 1-1 with AEK Athens after former Tottenham striker Steven Bergwijn’s first-half penalty was cancelled out by Domagoj Vida.
Dunk was responsible for the hosts’ second goal, but his second-half display exemplified Albion’s fighting spirit. However, when Pedro converted the 88th-minute penalty kick, Dunk celebrated in the Marseille penalty area before collapsing and requiring treatment on the field. It was a concerning moment because it was unclear what the problem was as he was assisted by Brighton’s physios. He got gently up on his feet after two minutes and saw out the remaining minutes.
According to Athletic writer Andy Naylor, De Zerbi’s initial explanation was that Dunk “lost energy.” “Clarification duly provided,” Naylor wrote afterwards. Dunk was unwell.”
It was an unusual event on an emotional night for the Seagulls, and the goal now is to recover in time for the Amex Stadium match against Liverpool on Sunday. Dunk’s recovery time for that one is currently unknown.
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