- Ghana’s Jordan Ayew scored the opener and assisted Ndidi’s goal in an impressive performance for the Foxes
- Steve Cooper has finally secured his first win as Leicester City manager after four games
- Wilfred Ndidi is set to join the Super Eagles for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers
Wilfred Ndidi played a key role in Leicester City's dominant 4-0 victory over Tranmere Rovers in the second round of the EFL Cup. The Nigerian midfielder scored the third goal of the match, capping off a brilliant team move that involved an assist from his African brother Jordan Ayew, who had earlier put Leicester ahead in the first half.
The disparity in quality between Leicester City and their League Two opponents was evident right from the start. Leicester commanded the game, controlling over 71% of possession and outshooting Rovers 22-3, with eight of their shots on target while Rovers had none.
This kind of dominance is expected from the Foxes in such matchups, yet long-time followers of Leicester know that they often find it challenging to fully capitalise on scoring opportunities, contrastingly, this match was totally different.
Under new head coach Steve Cooper, Leicester City looked sharp from the beginning. The breakthrough came in the 38th minute when Ayew curled a stunning shot into the top corner, securing his first goal for the Foxes.
The second half saw Leicester continue their dominance, with Stephy Mavididi coolly converting a penalty after Ricardo Pereira was fouled in the box.
Ndidi added to the scoreline in the 71st minute, finishing off a well-worked move with precision. Former Tottenham star Harry Winks then added the final flourish, scoring with a powerful strike from distance, ensuring a comfortable win and giving Cooper his maiden victory as Leicester's boss.
This match also marked the first time Ndidi scored while donning his new shirt number 6, a change he made at the start of the season.
His performances as a holding midfielder have been vital for Leicester, and he remains a crucial player as they aim to restore their long-lost status in the Premier League and impress fans after gaining promotion from the championship. Ndidi was substituted shortly after scoring, with Will Alves coming on to replace him.
Hopefully, this win will give Leicester City the required boost ahead of their next Premier League game against Aston Villa after they were bossed by Fulham in a convincing 2-1 win over last weekend.
After the game at King Power Stadium on Saturday, August 31, Wilfred Ndidi will now be looking ahead to international duty, as he has been named in the Super Eagles squad for their upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda.
Super Eagles striker Ademola Lookman to miss season opener amidst PSG links
Previously, TheRadar reported that Lookman, who turns 27 in October, has been linked with a high-profile move to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The French giants have shown strong interest in the winger, particularly after his stellar performances in the UEFA Europa League.
According to reports, PSG have made contact with Lookman’s representatives, with the player reportedly keen on the move to Paris.