Iheanacho fires Leicester City into FA Cup 5th Round

Kelechi Iheanacho made the difference for Leicester City as they claimed a narrow 1-0 win over League Two side Walsall to reach the Fifth Round of the FA Cup. The Foxes’ struggles continued as they faced the side playing in the fourth tier of English football.

Walsall had lost once in 13 matches coming into the tie against Leicester City, who look low on confidence this season. The Foxes welcomed James Maddison back, with the mercurial midfielder making his first start since the World Cup.

Both sides threatened each other from the start of the match, with Walsall not afraid to trade blows with their Premier League visitors. The first real chance of note to either side came in the 47th minute when Patson Daka was sent tumbling in the box, resulting in a penalty being awarded. Youri Tielemans stepped up and saw his penalty come back off the upright.

Iheanacho was introduced into the fray in the 63rd minute, replacing Daka. He almost had an instant impact as he picked up a long punt from Tielemans before testing the goalkeeper.

Within five minutes of his introduction, however, the forward broke the deadlock. Nampalys Mendy passed the ball to the feet of Iheanacho, who shifted inside before attempting to curl the ball into the far corner. The ball took a wicked deflection and was sent looping into the back of the net in the 68th minute. It was Iheanacho’s 17th FA Cup goal in 23 appearances.

Leicester City held on for the win away from home and were hardly troubled for the rest of the game. Just like against Gillingham, Iheanacho was once again the hero for the Foxes, who progress to the fifth round.