Liverpool Stay Top; Leicester Slip into Relegation Zone

Cataleya

December 27, 2024 · 1 min read

Liverpool Stay Top; Leicester Slip into Relegation Zone
FootBall | December 27, 2024
Cody Gakpo has reached 10 goals across all competitions for Liverpool this season. (Image: Getty)

Liverpool strengthened their grip at the top of the Premier League with a 3-1 comeback victory over struggling Leicester City at Anfield. Despite Jordan Ayew’s sharp sixth-minute strike giving Leicester a surprise lead, Liverpool rallied to claim all three points and move seven points clear at the summit. The first half was frustrating for Liverpool as Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah hit the post and crossbar.

However, Cody Gakpo leveled the score just before halftime with a curling finish from the edge of the box. Four minutes into the second half, Curtis Jones marked his 100th Premier League appearance by turning in Alexis Mac Allister’s cross to give Liverpool the lead. Leicester had a chance to equalize but Patson Daka mis-kicked in front of goal. Salah then sealed the win with his 19th goal of the season. Unbeaten in 22 matches across all competitions, Liverpool remain in a commanding position with a game in hand on their nearest rivals.

A win in their next fixture against West Ham could extend their lead to 10 points. Manager Arne Slot’s first season has been remarkable with Liverpool also leading their Champions League group and advancing to the League Cup semi-finals. Meanwhile, Leicester dropped into the relegation zone after a third straight defeat. Despite showing improvement compared to their previous loss to Wolves, missed opportunities proved costly.

Under new manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, Leicester have managed just four points in five games. Their Premier League fate may hinge on upcoming matches against fellow relegation candidates like Crystal Palace. Liverpool’s fans celebrated their team’s dominance but both Slot and his players acknowledge the long journey ahead in their bid for a first league title in five years.