In the battle to finish in the Champions League places, Leicester City drew 2-2 with Chelsea before the Premier League winter break to maintain the Foxes’ eight-point advantage over their closest challengers. Brendan Rodgers’ side failed to capitalise on a host of chances, with just four of their 14 shots hitting the target. Still, without the influence of midfield playmaker Youri Tielemans, the Foxes could have come away from the game empty-handed.
The 22-year-old Belgian maestro was sublime, creatively playing two key passes, both of which were assists for the host’s goals. On top of providing for the Foxes, Tielemans was as calm and assured as ever with the ball at his feet ensuring that Leicester kept 50 percent of possession via 34 passes, 73.5 percent of which were successful. Additionally, the midfielder provided one cross which found a fellow Foxes player, of which only James Maddison contributed more accurate crosses with three.
Even with Hamza Choudhury protecting the defence behind Tielemans, the Belgian international made two tackles in the engine room to help ensure Leicester dominated Chelsea defensively by making 25 tackles to the visitors 15. An interception and two clearances topped a commanding defensive performance in the middle of the park, though it came with the caveat of Tielemans conceding two fouls. The Belgian’s industry was epitomised by winning one aerial duel, highlighting he was not afraid to get stuck in despite his diminutive 5’7” frame.
As well as significantly contributing to both of the Foxes’ goals, Tielemans attempted two shots of his own, with his one shot on target a quarter of Leicester’s total efforts which troubled Willy Caballero. Furthermore, the central midfielder was twice fouled by the opposition as Chelsea struggled to contain the 22-year-old during his 79 minutes of action.
Since arriving at the King Power Stadium, a year ago, initially on loan, Tielemans has provided some eye-catching displays, leading to being named man of the match on three occasions this season. But providing both assists to ensure the gap to Chelsea a place below Leicester City in fourth remains at eight points could be one of his most important contributions to date.
