Champions Leicester City have been humbled by a hungry Liverpool outfit 4-1 as the Reds opened the new Anfield stand in style.
Leicester were stunned as Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane put Liverpool 2-0 ahead early on. Jamie Vardy gave Leicester renewed hope, knocking home after Lucas made a blundering error to make it 2-1 at half time.
Adam Lallana powered home for Liverpool on 55 minutes before Firmino rounded out the scoring in the 88th minute to clinch the win for the Reds.
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Early goal shifted momentum
The 12th-minute goal cancelled out Leicester’s positive start, who were counter-attacking well early on. But a team used to defending so stubbornly was caught out by the lightening pace of Liverpool.
The Foxes struggled to adjust their style with the Reds dominating proceedings. This saw Liverpool double their lead inside the opening half-hour of play after creating a number of clear chances on goal.
Leicester looked out of the contest before an error from makeshift centre-back Lucas gifted Jamie Vardy a goal.
It was a goal barely deserved in what was a dominant performance by the red half of Merseyside.
Midfield force lacking for Leicester
Daniel Amartey had his colours lowered in what was a difficult performance for the youngster. His passes not effective and his defending seemingly invisible in the centre of the park.
Thrust into the centre of midfield after an injury to Nampalys Mendy, it was a tough outing for the Amartey. It was not unnoticed by his manager who outlined the team’s difficulties in his post-match comments.
“When you lose some players you lose your composure,” Ranieri said.
The departure of N’Golo Kante is still clearly felt by Leicester with the dynamic midfielder’s tenacious performances a vital cog in what made the Foxes unstoppable last season.
It was a remarkable achievement for Leicester to keep hold of the majority of the players so vital to last season’s success, yet even a single change to the lineup can make a considerable difference to the side.
Impressive Liverpool performance
The Reds were impressive as they claimed a comprehensive victory.
Liverpool possess great speed in attacking areas with new signing Mane proving to be an incisive edition to this side.
Daniel Sturridge’s return to the starting lineup was a promising one as the striker brought a significant threat throughout the match. His presence and subsequent attention gained from the Leicester defence created space for his team mates to attack.
The combination play was a sight to behold as Liverpool comprehensively outplayed Leicester.
Unchanged Foxes face busy schedule
With seven matches in 22 days, the Leicester squad is set to be stretched in the upcoming weeks.
The Foxes and Ranieri are renowned for their continuity, with an unchanged lineup once again used against Liverpool.
With questionable form and debatable squad depth, the Foxes are set for significant challenges as they begin their UEFA Champions League adventure.
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