Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table to seven points, with a game in hand, following a dominant 3-1 victory over Leicester City on Boxing Day. The result further solidified their position as title contenders in a season where they have consistently impressed.
The day began favorably for Liverpool, as rivals Manchester City and Chelsea both dropped points earlier. City were held to a 1-1 draw by Everton, while Chelsea suffered a surprising 2-1 defeat at home to Fulham.
These outcomes created an ideal opportunity for Arne Slot’s side to increase their advantage at the summit, and the Reds did not disappoint.
Despite Liverpool’s strong form, it was Leicester who struck first, silencing the Anfield crowd with an early goal. Jordan Ayew found the net in the opening 10 minutes, giving the visitors an unexpected lead. Liverpool quickly responded by asserting control of the game, creating numerous chances and hitting the woodwork twice during a dominant first-half display.
The breakthrough came just before halftime, courtesy of Cody Gakpo’s brilliance. In stoppage time, the Dutch forward cut in from the left and unleashed a spectacular curling effort into the top-right corner, leveling the match at 1-1 heading into the break.
Liverpool began the second half with purpose and intensity, and it didn’t take long for them to take the lead. In the 49th minute, Curtis Jones tapped home from close range after a clever assist by Alexis Mac Allister.
The hosts appeared to have extended their lead shortly after when Gakpo scored again, but the goal was controversially disallowed following a lengthy VAR review.
The Reds sealed the victory in the 82nd minute through Mohamed Salah’s moment of magic. The Egyptian forward scored from a tight angle, delivering a stunning finish that put the game beyond Leicester’s reach. The 3-1 win highlighted Liverpool’s attacking prowess and tactical discipline.
Salah’s goal was the icing on the cake in another standout performance from the forward. With 16 goals and 11 assists in just 17 Premier League appearances this season, he remains crucial to Liverpool’s success.
Across all competitions, Salah has contributed 19 goals and 15 assists in 25 matches, underlining his immense value to the team.
However, uncertainty lingers over Salah’s future, with fans eager for clarity on his contract situation. Reports indicate that Liverpool is close to agreeing on a two-year extension for the 32-year-old, but Salah himself declined to comment after the match. “I wish fans a Happy New Year and I will see them at the next home game,” he said. Losing Salah would be a significant blow for Liverpool, both on and off the pitch, making his potential renewal a critical priority.
