Manchester City were defeated by Newcastle United at St. James’ Park just a day before title rivals Liverpool faced Leicester. Pep Guardiola’s men actually started the game well with an early goal from Sergio Aguero from an unorthodox assist by Bernardo Silva. Somehow, Rafael Benitez managed his squad brilliantly, allowing them to clinch a precious 2–1 victory.
Knowing they could thus widen the gap to seven points, Liverpool came into this match with high hopes. The home side won their previous two matches against Brighton and Crystal Palace by scoring five goals, thanks to their deadly frontmen led by star man Mohamed Salah. Meanwhile, Leicester City came to Anfield on the back of a string of bad results. Claude Puel’s side had lost all of their previous three games, including a humiliating defeat to League Two side Newport County in the FA Cup.
As expected, Liverpool dominated the majority of the game. Sadio Mane’s goal in the third minute was the first piece of evidence. Unluckily for the Reds, Harry Maguire bagged an equaliser for Leicester late in the first half. Jurgen Klopp’s side tried their utmost to the winner but they failed to do so. The game ended in a draw and Liverpool were only able to widen the gap to five points. This tactical analysis will inform you how the match unfolded.
To read the rest of this match analysis, click here.
