Brighton & Hove Albion faced Aston Villa on Sunday in the 2026–27 Premier League opening round.
The match was scheduled for 14:00 BST on Sunday 23 August 2026. It shared that kick-off time with Manchester City versus Bournemouth, creating a simultaneous pair of Sunday fixtures.
Brighton’s participation affected the scheduling because the club was involved in UEFA Conference League qualification play-offs on the preceding Thursday. The Premier League therefore placed Brighton’s opening league fixture on Sunday rather than an earlier slot.
The match was played at Brighton’s Falmer Stadium. Aston Villa were the visitors, while Brighton’s other opening-round distinction was their position as one of the two clubs involved in the round’s largest home victory.