It’s been over a decade since Leicester City last toppled Manchester City, dating back to 2011. This time, in a dramatic twist during the League Cup, Leicester’s Janina Leitzig became the hero of the hour. Brought in by manager Willie Kirk as a strategic move for the penalty shootout, Leitzig replaced goalkeeper Lize Kop in the final moments of the game.
Leitzig’s heroics were on full display when she blocked Steph Houghton’s shot in the nail-biting sudden death, clinching victory for Leicester. Earlier, Leicester had built a comfortable two-goal advantage with Janice Cayman and Sophie Howard finding the net in the first half.
Manchester City’s manager, Gareth Taylor, had shuffled his squad significantly, making nine changes from the team that secured a 3-1 victory against Manchester United in the Women’s Super League. The team initially struggled to find their rhythm.
However, the introduction of Alex Greenwood, Lauren Hemp, and Yui Hasegawa in the second half galvanized City, sparking a comeback. Venezuelan star Deyna Castellanos scored her season’s first goal shortly after halftime, and Laura Coombs later equalized, making it all square with 20 minutes remaining.
The penalty shootout was a rollercoaster, with both teams missing two of their first five attempts. It was Howard’s successful shot for Leicester and Houghton’s subsequent miss, saved by Leitzig, that finally settled the score.
Leicester’s victory puts them in a strong position in Group B, trailing Manchester United by just one point and two points behind group leaders Manchester City.
In other League Cup matches, Manchester United edged past Liverpool with a 1-0 victory, thanks to Nikita Parris. Aston Villa continued their impressive form, thrashing Blackburn 7-0, with Rachel Daly and Alisha Lehmann each scoring a brace.
Crystal Palace and London City Lionesses also recorded wins in Group C, while Tottenham’s victory over Bristol City put them at the top of Group D. Brighton, after their 3-1 triumph over West Ham, now leads Group E, closely followed by Charlton.
The match statistics reflected a closely contested game. Manchester City maintained a slight edge in possession and had more shots overall, but Leicester’s resilience and strategic goalkeeper switch proved decisive in the end.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Janina Leitzig Penalty Save
Who was the key player in Leicester City’s victory over Manchester City in the League Cup?
Janina Leitzig emerged as the hero for Leicester City by saving a decisive penalty in the shootout, leading to a thrilling 4-3 victory over Manchester City.
What was the score at the end of regular time in the Man City vs Leicester City match?
The match ended 2-2 in regular time, with Leicester City initially taking a two-goal lead before Manchester City fought back to level the score.
How did Janina Leitzig contribute to Leicester City’s win?
Janina Leitzig, a substitute goalkeeper, made a crucial save during the penalty shootout, blocking Steph Houghton’s shot and securing Leicester City’s win.
What changes did Manchester City’s manager make for the League Cup match?
Manchester City’s manager, Gareth Taylor, made nine changes to the starting lineup compared to the previous Women’s Super League win against Manchester United.
What was the outcome of the penalty shootout in the Man City vs Leicester City match?
Leicester City won the penalty shootout 4-3, with Janina Leitzig saving a decisive penalty in sudden death.
How has this victory affected Leicester City’s standing in the Women’s League Cup?
This victory places Leicester City third in Group B of the Women’s League Cup, close behind Manchester United and Manchester City.
More about Janina Leitzig Penalty Save
- Manchester City Women’s Official Website
- Leicester City Women’s Team News
- Women’s League Cup Highlights
- Janina Leitzig Player Profile
- Detailed Match Statistics and Analysis
- Women’s Super League Updates
4 comments
Houghton missing that penalty was a shocker, didn’t see that coming! Props to Leitzig for stepping up big time, shows how one moment can make or break a match
gotta give it to Leicester, pulling a keeper switch at the last minute? bold move, but it paid off big time. Kirk’s a genius or a madman, not sure which yet.
not our best performance, to be honest, but credit where it’s due, Leicester played their hearts out. Still think we should’ve had it in the bag though.
wow, what a game! leicester really showed some grit out there, Leitzig was just amazing with that save, man city looked a bit off their game tho