Football Prediction | Leicester City vs Wolverhampton Wanderers | English Premier League | December 22 – Can Either Side Escape the Bottom Three in This Relegation Battle?

Premier League action returns as Leicester City hosts Wolverhampton Wanderers at the King Power Stadium on Sunday, December 22, 2024, at 8:00 PM (GMT). Brendan Rodgers’ Leicester will aim to capitalize on their home advantage to secure valuable points, while Wolves, managed by Julen Lopetegui, look to maintain their strong form and climb the Premier League table.

Leicester vs Wolves Form Guide

Leicester

Leicester City has shown resilience this season, with notable strengths in coming back from losing positions and finishing scoring chances. However, they have struggled to defend against set pieces and attacks down the wings. Key players like Jamie Vardy and Facundo Buonanotte will be vital in their quest for a win.

Wolves

Wolverhampton Wanderers have been a strong force, excelling in counter-attacks and stealing the ball from the opposition. However, they face challenges in defending against long shots and set pieces. Matheus Cunha and Jørgen Strand Larsen will be crucial in their attacking strategy.

Leicester vs Wolves Key Battles

Jamie Vardy vs Matheus Cunha

The battle between Leicester’s veteran striker Jamie Vardy and Wolves’ top scorer Matheus Cunha will be key. Vardy’s clinical finishing and experience will challenge Wolves’ defense, while Cunha’s dynamic play and eye for goal can trouble Leicester’s backline.

Facundo Buonanotte vs Jørgen Strand Larsen

Buonanotte’s creativity and ability to contribute to goals will face off against Larsen’s offensive consistency for Wolves. This clash could be decisive in determining the midfield battle.

Also Read:- Football Prediction | Manchester United vs AFC Bournemouth | English Premier League | December 22

Leicester vs Wolves Tactical Outlook

Leicester will aim to play with width and leverage their aerial duels. Despite their attacking potential, they need to address weaknesses in defending set pieces and attacks down the wings. Rodgers may rely on Vardy’s sharpness and Buonanotte’s creative play to unlock Wolves’ defense.

Wolves will likely utilize their aggressive style and counter-attacking strength. Lopetegui’s side is expected to take long shots and employ long balls to exploit gaps in Leicester’s defense. Their consistency in fielding a strong starting XI could give them an edge in maintaining momentum.

Head-to-Head Encounters

Leicester City and Wolverhampton Wanderers have faced off 14 times in recent years. Leicester leads with six wins, while Wolves have secured four victories, and four matches ended in draws. With both teams closely matched, this encounter promises to be competitive.

Injury News and Suspensions

Leicester City 

Leicester City faces a challenging period with key players sidelined due to injuries. Abdul Fatawu is set to be out until early August 2025 with a cruciate ligament injury, while Ricardo Pereira’s hamstring issue will keep him away until mid-March 2025. Wilfred Ndidi is dealing with a thigh injury, ruling him out until early January 2025, and Mads Hermansen remains doubtful due to a groin injury. Odsonne Edouard’s knock adds to Leicester’s worries, with his return anticipated in late December 2024. These injuries will test the squad’s depth as they look to maintain momentum in their campaign.

Wolverhampton Wanderers

Wolverhampton Wanderers are grappling with a mix of injuries and suspensions. Rayan Ait Nouri is unavailable due to suspension, while Enso Gonzalez and Sasa Kalajdzic are both sidelined with cruciate ligament injuries, with their returns expected in early May and January 2025, respectively. José Sá is doubtful with a shoulder issue, and Pablo Sarabia will miss action until early January 2025 due to a calf injury. Boubacar Traore’s knee injury keeps him out until late December 2024, and Yerson Mosquera is out until early June 2025. These setbacks pose a significant challenge for Wolves as they navigate a busy fixture schedule.

Leicester vs Wolves Possible Playing Squads

Leicester City 

Ward (GK), Kristiansen, Vestergaard, Okoli, Justin, Skipp, Soumaré, Khannouss, Buonanotte, McAteer, Vardy

Wolverhampton Wanderers 

Johnstone (GK), Gomes, Bueno, Semedo, Doherty, Lemina, Gomes, Lima, Cunha, Bellegarde, Larsen

Match Details at a Glance

Match Prediction

Leicester City will look to use their home advantage, but Wolves’ strengths in counter-attacks and finishing scoring chances could prove decisive. Expect an engaging and fiercely contested match.

Score Prediction

Leicester and Wolves are set for a thrilling encounter, with goals expected from both sides. Wolves’ attacking prowess might edge out Leicester’s defense in a high-scoring contest. Final prediction: Leicester 2-3 Wolves in a nail-biting finish. 

Disclaimer: This Football prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.