João Pedro hits a hat-trick as Brighton hammer Sheffield Utd

João Pedro's hat-trick sent Brighton into the FA Cup fifth round with a convincing 5-2 victory over Sheffield United.

Brighton took the lead early with a stunning goal from Facundo Buonanotte after he dribbled past a tackle and unleashed an unstoppable 25-yard drive into the top corner. 

Jan Paul van Hecke and Igor Julio's heroic defensive efforts denied United an immediate equaliser, with crucial blocks preventing shots from Will Osula and Gustavo Hamer.

Brighton extended their lead just before the half-hour mark when João Pedro converted a penalty after being fouled by Jayden Bogle in the area.

In the 42nd minute, Sheffield United pulled one back when Osula's cross was parried by Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen into the path of Hamer, who found the net.

Motivated from Hamer's goal, the Blades kept pushing and levelled the score deep into added time as Osula headed home Bogle's cross.

The second half saw Brighton regain the lead through Pedro's second penalty, following Bogle's handball in the box.

The Brazilian striker secured his first career hat-trick in the 67th minute, sealing the victory with a low finish into the bottom corner.

Sheffield United failed to mount a comeback, and Brighton added a fifth goal in added time when Danny Welbeck fired under Blades debutant goalkeeper Ivo Grbic. 

The win sends Brighton into the next round of the FA Cup, while Sheffield United can now focus on avoiding Premier League relegation.