The pace in the first half was understandably slow in the baking hot temperatures of the Costa Del Sol.
Albion looked composed in early stages with former Stoke loanee Andy Moran lively in midfield and youngster Harry Howell causing a few problems down the right.
Yasin Ayari had the first chance for Brighton as his effort from the edge of the box was well saved, before Kaoru Mitoma picked out Howell with a lovely cross but the youngster just failed to apply the finishing touch.
Albion's opener arrived on 38 minutes as Howell probed down the right. The ball arrived to Ayari, who quickly found Mitoma and the Japan ace fired home after a heavy deflection.
Stoke levelled minutes later as a swift counter attack saw dangerman Million Manhoef crash an effort against the bar. Lewis Baker was quick to follow up and his goal-bound effort struck the arm of Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba. A penalty was awarded and Baker stepped up to smash a low effort past Jason Steele.
Brighton changed all 11 players after the break and showed greater intensity. It was a dream start for £10m defender Diego Coppola as he powerfully headed home to restore Brighton’s lead from Caylan Vickers cross.
Georginio – who missed a couple of chances in the second half – added a late third to seal a deserved win for Fabian Hurzeler’s team.
Here’s how all 22 Seagulls rated...
5. Jack Hinshelwood - 5
Played at left back - as he did for England during the under-21 Euros - and had a few problems against Stoke livewire Million Manhoef. He will no doubt be hoping to force his way in the midfield at some stage. Photo: Mike Hewitt
6. Yasin Ayari - 7
His early effort from the edge of the box was beaten away by the stoke goal keeper. The Sweden international then teed up Mitoma for the opener. Photo: BHAFC
7. Carlos Baleba - 5
Not quite at his sharpest and had trouble with his passing range. Very wayward. He also conceded a penalty as Lewis Baker's effort crashed against his arm. Photo: Mike Hewitt
8. Kaoru Mitoma - 7
Started brightly and delivered a lovely ball in to pick out Harry Howell, who so nearly opened the scoring. Mitoma then did it himself as his heavily deflected effort from the edge of the box gave Albion the lead. Good first half display Photo: Mike Hewitt