Leicester City hosted West Ham United and delivered a clinical 3-1 victory in Matchweek 14. A quick start set the tone for Leicester, with Jamie Vardy converting in just the second minute to ignite the King Power Stadium. Despite West Ham’s persistent offensive efforts, their inability to capitalize on numerous chances contrasted sharply with Leicester’s efficient finishing. The win moves Leicester further up the table, while West Ham are left pondering missed opportunities.
Key Stats Recap
Leicester City: 7 shots, 5 on target, 41% possession, xG 1.73. Leicester’s conversion rate and defensive organization trumped West Ham’s high volume of shots.
West Ham United: 28 shots, 7 on target, 59% possession, xG 4.03. West Ham attempted 45 dribbles compared to Leicester’s 19, but the lack of end product defined the game.
Momentum Analysis
The momentum graph highlights Leicester City’s early dominance, particularly in the first half, where they surged ahead through goals by Vardy and El Khannouss. West Ham enjoyed long spells of attacking pressure in the second half, as evidenced by their rising xG. However, a lack of sharpness in front of goal stifled their comeback hopes, and Patson Daka’s late goal sealed the deal for Leicester.
Shots and Goals Breakdown
Leicester City registered only 7 shots with an xG of 1.73, converting 3 of them into goals—a masterclass in finishing efficiency. Their shot map shows clinical execution inside the box, with Vardy, El Khannouss, and Daka scoring from high-probability areas.
Conversely, West Ham’s 28 shots resulted in just one goal (xG 4.03). Their shot map illustrates numerous efforts from distance and poor conversion of high-value chances, emphasizing a frustrating night for the Hammers.
Possession and Passing Tactics
Leicester City’s pass map demonstrates a cohesive and direct approach, with Wilfred Ndidi and Soumaré orchestrating play from midfield. Vardy’s hold-up play was pivotal in connecting the midfield with the attack, while McAteer and Buonanotte provided width and creativity.
West Ham, despite dominating possession (59%), relied heavily on crosses and long balls. Their pass map reveals a congested midfield, with Tomas Souček and Kudus overburdened in their efforts to link play.
Leicester City showed how efficiency can outshine quantity in this high-stakes clash. West Ham’s need to convert chances into goals will be top of mind heading into the next fixtures. For Leicester, this result reinforces their upward trajectory and their ability to punch above their weight against strong opposition.