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Liverpool's manager has called for a repeat of Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid as the Premier League champions visit Manchester City this weekend. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, read Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Stopping another of the game’s finest strikers, while keeping a third clean sheet in a row, could strengthen the manager's post-Madrid message that Liverpool are still in the chase for the biggest prizes.

Ideal Cure for Poor Form

Their European win over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga pace-setters, who had 13 wins from 14 games before their arrival at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of the worst run of his tenure. It was also perfect preparation for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that wants to play out, which doesn't defend in a low block and carries an obvious, rampant threat.

“It will be similar a little bit,” stated Virgil van Dijk, who mastered Haaland at Anfield last season. “We're up against a high-flying side like today and a striker, like today, who was on fire. When that happens you have to be precise and I think we showed we were good as a team defensively.”

Reasons for Success

Slot’s list for the successful performance against Madrid as well as Villa last weekend – were consistent with his analysis of the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats in seven games. Additional rest, avoiding early goals, and the improving fitness of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons played a part. They backed up his earlier points and decision to prioritize less the Carabao Cup by fielding a weakened squad against Crystal Palace.

• The comeback of last season’s midfield core of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s backline.
• The overdue return at full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, restored calmness and authority to a defence.
• The German playmaker enjoyed another good night in the Champions League but not from the attacking midfield position he has occupied in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s engine in the midfield. His national team skipper is excelling this season and has cemented his place as a leader in the team.

“What you see is what you get from Dom,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The work rate he brings during matches is remarkable, the quality that he has is outstanding and he is developing each and every game.”

Looking Ahead

The midfielder started up front alongside Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad previously as Slot caught City cold by switching to a 4-2-2-2. That win in February took Liverpool well ahead at the summit with 11 games to play. This weekend they will be playing catch-up but, as Slot reminded everyone after beating Real, there is plenty of road left for Liverpool to stage a recovery.