In-form Liverpool extended their winning streak and dealt a heavy blow to relegation-threatened Leicester with a convincing victory, courtesy of Curtis Jones’ brace.
Liverpool, under Jurgen Klopp’s guidance, have triumphed in their last seven matches, strengthening their pursuit of a top-four finish. They now sit just one point behind Newcastle and Manchester United, albeit with an additional game played.
For Leicester, another disheartening defeat sees the 2016 Premier League champions firmly entrenched in the relegation zone, languishing in 19th place and two points adrift of safety, with only two matches remaining.
The Reds took control in the first half, with two goals scored in quick succession by Curtis Jones, both set up by Mohamed Salah. Jones displayed composure as he confidently secured his first-ever Premier League double.
Liverpool had the opportunity to make it 3-0 before halftime, but an impressive reaction save from home goalkeeper Daniel Iversen denied Cody Gakpo from close range.
In the second half, Salah continued to shine, providing his third assist of the game as he set up Trent Alexander-Arnold’s exquisite curling finish into the top corner from a free-kick.
Liverpool maintains its hunt for a top-four finish
Liverpool’s charge for a Champions League spot may have come late, but they are now breathing down the necks of the two Uniteds above them. With only two wins required from their last three games, Manchester United and Newcastle United are on the brink of securing a top-four finish. However, Liverpool is ready to seize any opportunities that arise from their rivals’ potential slip-ups.
Although Liverpool started slowly against Leicester, they found their rhythm after the half-hour mark. Curtis Jones, in particular, continued his impressive form with his third goal in four games. His first goal was a composed finish from Mohamed Salah’s cross, while the second came from Salah’s well-timed through ball.
Salah, in addition to his goal contributions, provided a hat-trick of assists, including setting up Trent Alexander-Arnold’s sensational strike in the second half. Despite his impressive performance, Salah missed a golden opportunity to reach the 20-goal mark for the season, putting a clear chance wide.
Liverpool’s next challenge is a home match against Aston Villa, a team also chasing European qualification. They will then conclude their season against relegated Southampton. Maximum points in these games could potentially complete a remarkable turnaround in an otherwise disappointing season for Liverpool.
Foxes continue wretched run
Leicester City’s prospects look bleak, and they are strong contenders to join Southampton in the Championship next season. The team has struggled, managing only one victory in their last 14 games, resulting in a meager six points during that period. Their home defeat against Liverpool marked their 10th loss at home this season, matching a club record.
The team’s defensive vulnerabilities have been evident, leading manager Dean Smith to make changes. Jonny Evans, who had played only one minute of top-flight football in the past seven months, was given the start and captain’s armband. However, it was Wout Faes, Evans’ ill-fated defensive partner, who was at fault for both of Curtis Jones’ goals. Faes failed to clear the ball properly in the first goal and was caught out of position in the second.
Despite showing promising moments early on, Leicester’s confidence rapidly diminished after conceding. Harvey Barnes attempted to ignite a comeback with a curling effort that forced a remarkable save from Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson in the second half. However, the home side failed to mount a significant comeback and looked far from capable of turning the tide.
Leicester City’s remaining fixtures include an away match against Newcastle and a home encounter with West Ham as they desperately try to avoid relegation, a stark contrast to their remarkable title triumph just seven years ago.