Liverpool cemented their position at the top of the Premier League table after coming from behind to beat Leicester City 3-1 at Anfield on Boxing Day. The Reds had started poorly when Jordan Ayew opened the scoring for Leicester just six minutes in, sending shockwaves through the home crowd.
Despite the setback, Liverpool dominated possession and continued attacking Leicester’s goal, determined to find an equalizer. Their persistence paid off right on the stroke of halftime, thanks to the efforts of Dutch forward Cody Gakpo. The former PSV Eindhoven jewel cut inside from the left and curled a beautiful shot beyond keeper Jakub Stolarczyk, making it 1-1 just before the break. This marked Gakpo’s tenth goal of the season, and he was pivotal throughout the first half, as noted by former Chelsea player Andy Townsend during his commentary.
“Cody Gakpo has been sharp,” Townsend said, applauding Gakpo's effort. “Whenever he has got the ball on the right side, he has tried to make something positive from it. With the time he has got, he curls it beautifully past the goalkeeper. A brilliant goal.” Liverpool entered the half with renewed energy, having leveled the score just when it seemed Leicester's tactics were working.
The second half saw Liverpool ramp up their pressure, with Curtis Jones giving them the lead just four minutes after the restart. He tapped in Alexis Mac Allister’s cutback, which showcased the Argentine's vision and ability to orchestrate plays—a sentiment echoed by many Liverpool supporters who praised his role. “Two assists against Leicester for Alexis Mac Allister. The best midfielder in the league,” one fan remarked.
Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian king, then sealed the win with his 16th goal of the Premier League season, extending Liverpool's lead at the top of the table to seven points. His superb strike came after Gakpo’s earlier attempt to score his brace was ruled out by VAR for offside, but Salah’s finesse ensured the match concluded without any late drama.
“What a relief for Liverpool fans,” said one supporter on social media. “Gakpo is proving to be the real deal this season, showing his class by scoring when it matters most.”
While the fans cheered for Gakpo and Salah, another star emerged through Mac Allister, who had orchestrated both second-half goals with creative assists. His contributions did not go unnoticed, with supporters clamoring for recognition of his performance. “Alexis Mac Allister has been running the show in midfield today,” another fan tweeted, highlighting the Argentine's importance to the team.
Gakpo’s impact on the game significantly strengthens his case as one of the standout performers at Liverpool this season. Having reached double digits already, he is on track to surpass his previous Premier League tally of eight goals and could even exceed last season's overall total of 16 goals. The excitement around his form reflects Liverpool's growing confidence as they aim to secure the Premier League title this year.
Manager Arne Slot’s decision to start Gakpo over Luis Diaz, who netted twice against Tottenham earlier, has proven prescient. “We are witnessing the emergence of Gakpo as one of the key players for Liverpool,” noted another analysis. “His ability to change the game makes him indispensable.”
Meanwhile, the team's success this season is reflected not only in their focal strikers but strategically across the pitch, relying on contributions from all positions, including Mac Allister's central role.
This victory against Leicester not only boosted Liverpool’s confidence but marked the beginning of what fans hope will be sustained success throughout the season. Looking forward, supporters will eagerly anticipate their next Premier League challenge against West Ham on December 29, where Gakpo’s form and Mac Allister’s playmaking skills will undoubtedly be pivotal.
