Betting: Shakespeare has the script for Leicester’s Champions League success
The story of Leicester City is one that even the most ambitious playwright wouldn’t have scripted, but they could face yet another dramatic act when they take on Sevilla in the Champions League this evening.
Since losing the first leg 2-1 in Spain, Premier League winning boss Claudio Ranieri has been sacked, with assistant Craig Shakespeare appointed in his place until the end of the season.
The Italian didn’t have to beware the Ides of March (he was sacked in February), but his replacement Shakespeare has stepped into the breach with distinction.
Having gone winless in Ranieri’s last nine matches, the Foxes have won both games under the new man 3-1, including a dominant performance over Liverpool that bought memories of last season’s title win flooding back.
With confidence returned to the squad – especially key man Jamie Vardy, who scored twice against Liverpool, as well as the crucial first-leg away goal, the King Power will be bouncing.
Another 3-1 victory would see Leicester through to the last eight.
Sevilla haven’t enjoyed the greatest time of it since the first match three weeks ago, drawing to lowly Alaves and Leganes in La Liga.
That’s seen them slip to five points behind leaders Real Madrid as they chase their first title since 1946.
They were the dominant side in Andalusia three weeks ago, though a host of wasted chances, including Joaquin Correa’s missed penalty, mean they should already be out of sight.
As it is, Jorge Sampaoli’s men face a nervous night in the east Midlands.
Given the journey they’ve been on to get here, I’m certain Leicester won’t give this up without a fight.
The Foxes are 8/7 to win on the night with 188BET, which I think is great value.
The question is whether they can qualify – which may depend on keeping Sevilla out.
Leicester haven’t kept a clean sheet since January 2, and given the Spanish side’s attacking quality, I can’t see them holding out all night.
I’ll be buying total goals at 2.95 with Sporting Index, and hoping it’s all’s well that ends well for the Foxes when the curtain falls tonight.
Pointers
Leicester – 8/7 (188BET)
Buy total goals – 2.95 (Sporting Index)