Liverpool is set to take on Leicester City on December 26, 2024, for Matchday 18 of the Premier League season. With kickoff slated for 3:00 PM ET at Anfield, this highly anticipated clash marks another pivotal moment for both teams as Liverpool aims to solidify its top position, and Leicester City fights to avoid dropping closer to the relegation zone.
Following a commanding 6-3 victory over Tottenham Hotspur last weekend, Liverpool stands at the top of the Premier League table with 39 points, just four points clear of Chelsea, who sit second. That win was backed up by Chelsea’s draw against Everton, creating breathing space for the Reds. This Boxing Day matchup is more than just another game; it’s a cornerstone for Liverpool’s aspirations of claiming the Premier League title.
For Leicester City, on the other hand, the stakes couldn't be higher. With only 14 points from 17 matches, the Foxes are hovering precariously just above the relegation zone, sitting 17th, two points clear of Wolverhampton and Ipswich. Leicester is fresh from a dispiriting 3-0 defeat against Wolverhampton, and they know they need points to ease their relegation worries.
Kickoff times vary across the U.S., with the match starting at 3:00 PM ET, translating to 2:00 PM CT, 1:00 PM MT, and 12:00 PM PT. Fans can catch all the action through several broadcasting options, including USA Network, Universo, and streaming on FuboTV. Liverpool fans will be hoping to witness another dominant performance like the one seen against Tottenham, where Mohamed Salah made headlines with two goals, showcasing his prowess on the pitch.
Leicester’s manager Ruud van Nistelrooy is facing his own challenges. Key players, including Jamie Vardy, have been integral to their attacking efforts but will need to step up against Liverpool’s sturdy defense. The Foxes are counting on Vardy to provide the spark they need, as he holds six goals and three assists this season. On the other hand, Liverpool's strong setup includes stars such as Salah and defender Virgil van Dijk, exhibiting depth and experience.
Historically, Liverpool enjoys the upper hand over Leicester at Anfield. The last two encounters have resulted in two decisive victories for Liverpool, including a 4-0 win on Boxing Day in 2023. Slot’s team has demonstrated resilience throughout the season, remaining unbeaten across their previous 21 matches. They are known for their aggressive style, which again will be on display as they look to assert dominance early against Leicester.
Navigationally, this match will also be significant under the backdrop of Boxing Day celebrations—a tradition steeped in English football culture, where teams engage fans with competitive fixtures on December 26. Fans flock to stadiums, and clubs have often geared efforts toward charity as part of these festivities.
With the foggy conditions at Anfield, players may face challenging visibility throughout the match. The atmosphere is expected to be electric as Liverpool seeks to turn their home ground advantage to maximum effect, aiming to end 2024 at Anfield with another win. Prediction-wise, many anticipate Liverpool could secure another emphatic victory. Various betting odds similarly favor the home side, with Liverpool at -1400, Leicester at +2500, and draw at +1000.
The pre-match excitement is palpable, and as fans prepare for the clash, the importance of each point has never been clearer for both sides. Liverpool will look to extend their lead at the top, and as for Leicester, it’s about survival when they hit the pitch on Boxing Day. With numerous storyline angles to explore and speculation surrounding player performances, this match makes for compelling viewing for any Premier League enthusiast.
Stay tuned for live updates, scorelines, and match highlights as we follow Liverpool against Leicester City this Boxing Day.