12/26/24 at Anfield

It was an eerie Boxing Day at Anfield this year, as fog seemed to linger about in every nook and cranny in the stadium. And although the players barely saw the ball down at the Kop End, Liverpool snuck away with a three to one victory over Leicester City. This putting the Reds seven points clear at the top of the table approaching the new year.

The first six minutes of the game was reminiscent of the Klopp era for the Reds, with chances coming in bunches. But the game would follow an entirely different script than expected when the Foxes struck first. Jordan Ayew slid one past Allison Becker with ease, with Andy Robertson yet again being the culprit in LIverpool’s back line. This made it an uphill battle for Liverpool, however, it wasn’t a challenge they were yet to face.

The remainder of the half stayed consistent with the first six minutes. Constant chances and an opposing net that had not yet flinched. Liverpool was dominating but troubled to find an equalizer, setting up for a mean half time discussion from Arne Slot. Although, Cody Gakpo seemed to have different plans. The Dutchman whipped the ball into the top right corner from the left wing in the closing seconds of the half. The clubs were on level terms once again.

The second half required a lot more patience from the Reds, and thus, they provided. Following a plethora of passes in Leicester’s box, Alexis Mac Allister found the Scouser, Curtis Jones, streaking towards the net, resulting in an easy finish. This marked the England internationals third goal of the premier league season.

Tides shifted in Liverpool’s favor, but the game was far from over. The Reds continued killing Leicester with passes and control, and they did not seem to have much of an answer. But, with a one goal difference, anything could happen. All the foxes could do was hope for one more big chance to fall their way.

Nevertheless, all that hope was killed by none other than the Egyptian King in the 82nd minute. Mohamed Salah slotted in his premier league leading 16th goal of the season. This ultimately came on the counter attack, assisted by Cody Gakpo after a wonderful switch of play.

At the end of the day, Liverpool did their job. Getting the three points and keeping their leading point tally as large as possible. Despite a rocky start, the game was always in their hands, even after trailing for 40 minutes. The Reds will continue to smile on this Boxing Day and beyond, looking forward to their return to London to face West Ham at the weekend.