On December 26, 2024, Liverpool continued to assert their dominance at the top of the Premier League with a convincing 3-1 comeback victory over Leicester City at Anfield on Boxing Day. The match started dramatically, as Leicester shocked the home crowd with an early goal just five minutes in. Jordan Ayew found the net after receiving a cross from Stephy Mavididi, placing Liverpool behind 1-0.
Despite the setback, the Reds maintained pressure throughout the first half, hitting the woodwork twice. A stunning equalizer came just before halftime from Cody Gakpo, who unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the area to bring the score to 1-1.
Returning for the second half, Liverpool quickly turned the tide. Just three minutes after the restart, Curtis Jones, who was making his 100th Premier League appearance, showcased his talent by finishing off a well-placed cross from Alexis Mac Allister, giving Liverpool the lead at 2-1.
The Reds then began to assert their control over the match, forcing Leicester onto the back foot. Although Liverpool had another goal disallowed for offside following VAR review, they eventually secured their victory with Salah scoring the third goal. The Egyptian winger beautifully cut inside from the right, firing the ball past Leicester goalkeeper Jakub Stolarczyk, solidifying his position as Liverpool's man-of-the-moment.
The victory made it 13 wins out of 18 matches for Liverpool this season, bringing their points total to 42, comfortably seven points clear of second-placed Chelsea after Chelsea's loss to Fulham later the same day.
"This was another example of our fighting spirit and quality," said Liverpool manager Arne Slot. The win has reinforced Liverpool's standing at the top of the table, showing their ambitions for the Premier League title.
Slot's decision to start Jones, who faced scrutiny for his first-half performance, has sparked contrasting views among fans. Supporters quipped on social media about the midfielder's knack for scoring at pivotal moments. One fan humorously noted, "Curtis Jones always scores when I think he’s playing poorly and I want him substituted!"
Liverpool is expected to continue its pursuit of domestic and continental glory, leading the Premier League and advancing through to the later rounds of the Champions League.
Conversely, Leicester City faces mounting pressure with this defeat keeping them entrenched within the relegation zone, currently sitting 18th with only 14 points from 18 games. While the Foxes had sought to escape the danger area with this match, they were left reeling after another disappointing result.
After the match, Leicester's struggles were apparent as they prepare for their next challenge: hosting Manchester City. Their head coach, Ruud Van Nistelrooy, must inspire confidence within his squad to turn their fortunes around quickly.
The day concluded with Liverpool's triumph being celebrated by their fans, who sang and cheered as the team looked forward to their upcoming clash against West Ham on December 29, poised to extend their lead at the top of the league.
With Jones, Gakpo, and Salah leading the charge, Liverpool seems to be hitting top form just as the second half of the season approaches, making their title aspirations increasingly tangible.
