Newcastle Score Three First-Half Goals Against Leicester in Push to Overtake Man City

Leicester City vs. Newcastle United: Magpies Storm to Victory with First-Half Blitz
By Daniel Davis and Matt Barlow | Published: 18:30 BST, 7 April 2025 | Updated: 21:50 BST, 7 April 2025

[Image: Leicester City’s King Power Stadium packed with fans. Credit: Daily Mail]

Newcastle United delivered a stunning first-half performance to secure a decisive 3-0 victory over Leicester City, reigniting their push for a Premier League top-four finish. The Magpies’ attacking flair left the Foxes reeling, with goals from Alexander Isak, Bruno Guimarães, and Anthony Gordon sealing the win before halftime.

First-Half Dominance
Newcastle wasted no time asserting their authority. Just 12 minutes in, Alexander Isak capitalized on a defensive error, slotting past Leicester goalkeeper Mads Hermansen after a pinpoint through-ball from Joelinton. The Swedish striker’s composure set the tone for a relentless Newcastle side.

[Image: Alexander Isak celebrates his opening goal. Credit: Daily Mail]

Bruno Guimarães doubled the lead in the 28th minute, unleashing a thunderous strike from outside the box that left Hermansen rooted. The Brazilian’s goal underscored Newcastle’s midfield superiority, with Leicester struggling to contain their high-pressing style.

Anthony Gordon compounded Leicester’s misery shortly before halftime, tapping in a rebound after Harvey Barnes’ initial shot was parried. The goal marked Gordon’s 10th league strike of the season, highlighting his growing influence under Eddie Howe.

Leicester’s Struggles
Leicester, languishing in 15th place, offered little resistance. Jamie Vardy’s isolated runs were easily neutralized by Newcastle’s defense, while Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s creative efforts were stifled by Guimarães and Sean Longstaff. The home crowd’s frustration grew as passes went astray and defensive lapses piled up.

[Image: Bruno Guimarães fires Newcastle’s second goal. Credit: Daily Mail]

Manager Dean Smith’s halftime changes, including the introduction of Patson Daka, injected brief energy, but Newcastle’s backline—anchored by Fabian Schär—remained unyielding. Nick Pope’s sharp save to deny Daka in the 63rd minute epitomized Leicester’s futile efforts.

Newcastle’s Tactical Masterclass
Eddie Howe’s side excelled in transition, exploiting Leicester’s high defensive line with rapid counterattacks. Kieran Trippier and Tino Livramento provided width, while Isak’s movement continually troubled Wout Faes. The Magpies’ 3-0 halftime lead allowed them to control the second half with minimal risk, conserving energy for upcoming fixtures.

Key Stats

• Possession: Newcastle 54% – 46% Leicester
• Shots on Target: Newcastle 6 – 2 Leicester
• xG: Newcastle 2.8 – 0.7 Leicester

League Implications
The win temporarily lifts Newcastle above Manchester City into third place, applying pressure on their rivals ahead of a packed April schedule. For Leicester, the defeat deepens relegation fears, with just five points separating them from the drop zone.

[Image: Anthony Gordon celebrates Newcastle’s third goal. Credit: Daily Mail]

Post-Match Reactions
Eddie Howe: “The first half was near-perfect. We’ve shown we can compete with the best, but consistency is key.”
Dean Smith: “We were second-best everywhere. We must regroup quickly.”

Looking Ahead
Newcastle host Tottenham next, while Leicester face a critical clash at Everton. With survival at stake, the Foxes must rediscover their fighting spirit—and fast.

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