Leicester City secured a crucial 2-1 win over Wolves in Dean Smith’s first home game in charge, lifting them out of the relegation zone on goal difference. Timothy Castagne’s goal in the 75th minute was the decider after Wolves had gone ahead in the 13th minute with a goal from Matheus Cunha.
Leicester equalized when Kelechi Iheanacho converted a penalty kick awarded after Wolves’ goalkeeper, Jose Sa, fouled Jamie Vardy. Leicester grew in confidence, and Castagne sealed the victory with a smart finish off a Victor Kristiansen cut-back.
Leicester’s win was much needed as they had not won any of their previous nine games. The noise from the home fans at full-time was proof that Smith had delivered on his promise to give them something to shout about.
Although Leicester started brightly, the crowd grew frustrated with their nervy showing, perhaps spooked by the Wolves goal. The game changed when Iheanacho equalized from the penalty spot, and Leicester’s belief returned.
They played with sharpness, which had been missing in the first half, and that was in evidence with the winning goal. Leicester’s performance from the equalizer onwards will give Smith hope that his team can keep the supporters shouting all the way to safety in the coming weeks.
For much of the first half, Wolves looked on track to secure their third win in a row, which would have put them on the brink of safety. They swarmed all over Leicester following Cunha’s opener, but despite winning the ball back in promising areas, Wolves were unable to force a second goal and kill the game off.
Leicester’s equalizer shifted the momentum of the game, and Wolves were unable to fashion any clear-cut chances, although they still provided a threat on the break. Although Wolves remain well-placed to secure their place in the Premier League next season in the next few weeks, this game will feel like a missed opportunity to get closer to achieving that aim.
Leicester’s win was crucial for their survival chances, lifting them out of the relegation zone on goal difference. They have six games left to secure their place in the Premier League next season. Although performances are important, results matter most at this stage of the season. Leicester’s performance from the equalizer onwards will give them confidence going forward.
Wolves missed the chance to put distance between themselves and the relegation zone, but they are still well-placed to secure their place in the Premier League next season. However, they will rue their missed opportunity in this game.
