Leicester City were shocked 1-0 by Zorya in Europa League Group G play on matchday 5. The loss prevented the Foxes from wrapping up the group and now, need a win versus AEK Athens to top Group G.
Failing to top Group G would potentially see Leicester City play against one of the Champions League group stage third-place finishers. Topping Group G could possibly give Leicester City an easier draw in the round of 32.
3️⃣ wins1️⃣ draw1️⃣ defeat#UEL— Leicester City (@LCFC) December 9, 2020
3️⃣ wins1️⃣ draw1️⃣ defeat#UEL
AEK Athens have already been eliminated from progressing to the Europa League last 32. The Greeks have taken three points from 15 possible in the group stage. Their only win came against Zorya, 4-1, on matchday 3.
Leicester City may be in first place in the group and fourth in the Premier League, but they have not been in good form. Prior to a 2-1 win at the weekend versus Sheffield United, the Foxes had failed to win four straight games in all competitions. Three of those games ended in losses.
When these teams met in Greece on matchday 2, Leicester City claimed a 2-1 win. Jamie Vardy and Hamza Choudhury both scored before halftime to put Leicester City in the driver’s seat. Muamer Tankovic pulled a goal back for AEK Athens just before halftime, but it wasn’t enough.
Leicester City have been all or nothing at the King Power Stadium this season winning four and losing four times in eight matches. They are +3 in goal difference at home.
AEK Athens are on a two-match losing streak in all competitions. Massimo Carrera’s team have been decent away from home winning five times and losing twice in seven road games. They are +4 in goals away from home while claiming four clean sheets.
Brendan Rodgers played full-back Ricardo Pereira last week against Zorya. The defender returned after months out with a knee injury. Ricardo is injured once more but Rodgers claims it to be a groin issue. Ricardo will play no part on Thursday night with hopes of a return around Boxing Day.
Defender Calgar Soyuncu, Daniel Amartey, and Timothy Castagne are all likely to miss the game through their respective injuries. Reports on Wednesday indicate that centre-back Jonny Evans could re-join Manchester United in January due to the Red Devils’ defensive issues.
Leicester City claimed a 2-1 win away when these teams played on matchday 2. The Foxes should post another victory and edge Braga for first place in Group G. Leicester City may be slumping but should improve with a win and clean sheet on Thursday night.