Leicester City avoided an FA Cup shock by defeating Queens Park Rangers 6-2 on Saturday.
Ruud van Nistelrooy’s team secured a comfortable win against the Championship side, ending a six-match winless streak. Wout Faes delivered the standout moment of the match with a stunning strike, while Stephy Mavididi, Facundo Buonanotte, Jamie Vardy, and James Justin (who scored twice) also found the net.
Despite the emphatic result, Leicester faced some challenges, with Harry Winks’ misplaced pass leading to QPR’s second goal. However, the victory was vital for Leicester, providing a much-needed boost in confidence ahead of a crucial run of Premier League fixtures.
QPR manager Marti Cifuentes laments missed chance against Leicester
QPR had been in good form before the match, but the disparity between the Premier League and Championship was clear at King Power Stadium.
Cifuentes, who has received praise for his team’s improvement, admitted that despite knowing the challenge of facing Leicester, he was frustrated by his side’s inability to capitalize when opportunities arose.
He told QPR’s official website, “Up until they scored two quick goals, I thought we were playing really well and could challenge Leicester. That’s why I’m frustrated because individual mistakes cost us, and against a Premier League team, you can’t afford that. If you give them a chance, they won’t waste it.”
Marti Cifuentes questions controversial penalty decision
With Leicester leading 3-2 at halftime, the Foxes extended their advantage early in the second half when Jamie Vardy, celebrating his 38th birthday, converted a penalty in the 51st minute.
The penalty was awarded after QPR right-back Harrison Ashby was judged to have handled the ball in the box. Though the decision sealed QPR’s fate, Cifuentes felt it was an incorrect call.
“I haven’t seen the replays, but it’s hard for a player going down to make a tackle not to extend his arms,” he explained. “That’s how it is. After they scored the fourth, it was very tough. Mentally, it’s hard when you’re playing well and suddenly find yourself 4-2 or 5-2 down. But that’s the reality if you want to play at this level. If you give them a chance, they will punish you.”
‘Frustrated’… QPR manager highlights where Leicester City punished his side in FA Cup thrashing
