Iheanacho gets first Leicester City goal in Dean Smith’s reign, but record-breaking Haaland steers Manchester City to victory

Dean Smith took over earlier in the week, but he had a tough test in his first game

Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho scored the consolation goal for Leicester City as they fell to a 3-1 defeat at Manchester City Soccernet.ng reports.

Dean Smith was looking to begin his reign as Leicester City coach on a good note when they traveled to the Etihad to take on Manchester City.

The Cityzens were always favourites going into the tie, but Leicester City were hoping to upset them.

Nigerian midfielder Wilfred Ndidi started in midfield for the Foxes while Iheanacho started from the bench.

Manchester City were all over Leicester City like a rash from the blast of the whistle, and they did not need much time to take the lead.

John Stones got into a good shooting position inside the box and struck in the 5th minute to give the Cityzens the lead.

Minutes later, City won a penalty, and Erling Haaland took no prisoners, dispatching calmly from the spot to give his side a two-goal cushion.

The Norwegian striker scored again in the 25th minute and ensures a three-goal lead for the reigning Premier League champions. His brace ensured that he reached 32 goals this season, tying Mohammed Salah’s record for the most Premier League goals in a 38-game season.

Leicester City boss Smith introduced Iheanacho in the second half, and his presence was felt. His runs troubled the City backline, and his touches were good.

However, he needed half an hour to score against his former club and give the Foxes a glimmer of hope. Iheanacho had a good chance to score two minutes later, but his effort just drifted wide.

The Super Eagles star had a super chance to make it 3-2 just before the end of the game, but his striker clipped the outside of the right post.

It ended 3-1 at the Etihad, and the result ensures that Leicester City remain 19th on the Premier League table. They sit two points away from safety.