Despite the lack of goals, this was as entertaining as 0-0 draws get and the Blues will be left ruing missed chances from Lorenzo Gonzalez and Matt Smith had a goal ruled out for offside, which would have condemned the Foxes to a first league defeat since September.
What happened
There was no lack of endeavour from the two sides, who played at tempo and with attacking intent throughout.
The quality required to find a breakthrough wasn’t always on display, but City will feel they might have snatched three points had Gonzalez or Touaizi converted.
The Swiss youngster headed over the best chance of the first half on 40 minutes after Tyreke Wilson’s inswinging left-wing centre, while immediately after half-time Touaizi turned Gonzalez’ teasing cross just past the post from six yards.
It was a game that both sides grew into, with real chances few and far between in the opening period as Leicester dominated possession and territory.
Layton Ndukwu had a tame volley comfortably saved by Aro Muric after 15 minutes as the hosts peppered the City area with crosses.
At the other end, Smith picked Gonzalez out who’s angled drive was kept out by Daniel Iversen, before the striker’s best chance came shortly before the break only for him to head over.
The No. 9 switched with Touaizi at half-time and Davies’ move almost paid dividends instantly as the two combined, but the latter’s effort crept just wide of the post.
It kicked off a much improved second period, as both teams sought to be inventive and committed men forward in search of an opener.
Leicester perhaps dominated proceedings, but Josh Gordon fired a speculative effort over the bar from the edge of the area before Ian Carlo Poveda danced down the left-wing and squared to Touaizi, whose drilled shot was blocked.
It was a minor set back for Leicester who continued to keep their foot on the gas.
Gordon’s trickery saw him weave inside from the left and fire towards the near post, but Muric got down well to ensure the score remained level.
And City continued to be resolute in defence against an older, more physical side who sit near the summit of the Premier League 2.
Despite a succession of corners, the Blues defended stoically, with lead before Smith thought he’d broken the deadlock.
The midfielder rounded Iversen to tap home only to be called back with the assistant referee’s flag raised for offside.
Both teams continued to press for a winner and as the game reached its climax it looked as if the visitors might find a goal.
A fine through ball from Smith set Tom Dele-Bashiru free down the right and his cut back was met by Touaizi, who needed a little more composure as he fired over from 18 yards.
With five minutes remaining, Poveda could have won it after winning the ball deep in the Foxes half, but his fierce effort was straight at Iversen, who also denied Smith late on to ensure both sides settled for a point.
How they lined up
Davies made four changes to the team that beat Liverpool a fortnight ago, with Muric, Wilson, Touaizi and Poveda all coming into the starting line-up.
Playing the usual 4-3-3 formation, Muric was in goal, with Charlie Oliver, Joel Latibeaudiere, Francis and Wilson across the back.
Jacob Davenport sat in front of the defensive quartet, with Smith and Dele-Bashiru just ahead of him.
Touaizi and Poveda operated on the right and left flank respectively, with Gonzalez through the middle.
Up next
It’s a double game week for the EDS, who are back in Premier League 2 action at the Academy Stadium on Friday 2 February, when they entertain a Swansea side they beat 3-1 away in September.
Two weeks later and there’s a trip to the North East to face Sunderland, but before then the young Blues will discover their UEFA Youth League fate.
The draw for the last 16 ties takes place on Friday 9 February in Switzerland.
