Local lad Luke Thomas helps Leicester to progress into the round of 32 on a memorable European night

Leicester City progress to the round of 32 in the Europa League after an enthralling six goal thriller in Portugal.  

It finished 3-3 at The Quarry with the home side Braga going ahead three times including an 89th minute goal from Fransergio which was deemed to be the winner. But Jamie Vardy came off the bench to score a 95th minute equaliser. 

But the story of the night for Leicester fans and in particular Luke Thomas was the fact he scored his first senior goal for his boyhood team. 

From signing for the club when he was only eight years to making his professional debut against Sheffield United on the 16th of July this year helping his side to a 2-0 victory whilst providing an assist. The 19-year-old signed a long-term deal with the club in August with the contract rumoured to be five years long.   

Thomas, from Syston in Leicestershire made his European debut in October against AEK Athens in a 2-1 win, and just less than a month later the youngster scores his first goal in a blue shirt, and what an occasion to get it on. The academy graduates goal helped the team to progress into the next round in a huge game.  

It’s fair to say it has been a special six months for the left back who is cementing his place in Leicester’s squad, whether that being on the bench or starting whilst Leicester have had their injury nightmares.  

Thomas was one of three academy graduates starting for Brendan Rodgers’ men with another one Harvey Barnes scoring again in Europe. 

Braga impressed in both halves and shown they can score goals and all three they scored were nicely worked, showing why they are second in the Primira Liga.  

It could have been a lot more but thanks to Kasper Schmeichel, he kept the Foxes in it throughout.  

With the introduction of Wesley Fofana and Youri Tielemans at half time, this changed the game for Leicester, with more composure coming onto the field. Furthermore, with Maddison coming on later on in the half this gave the option of penetrating the Braga defence as these individuals thrive on half spaces and finding pockets with line breaking passes. The perfect combination for Vardy to party with up top.  

Maddison was instrumental in City’s comeback being involved in the second and third goal, recycling the ball very well for both goals.  

A much better second half for the Foxes with the introduction of their best players who were rested, Braga will have to wait until next week to hopefully secure their place in the next round but this display against a top Leicester side will give them great confidence.  

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