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Liverpool's manager has called for another performance like the team's showing against Real Madrid when the Premier League champions visit Manchester City this weekend. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, substitute Erling Haaland on Sunday. Neutralizing one more of the world's best attackers, and keeping a third shutout in a row, could strengthen Slot's post-Madrid message that Liverpool are still in the chase for the biggest prizes.

Ideal Cure for Poor Form

The Champions League victory over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga leaders, who had 13 victories from 14 matches before their arrival at Anfield, was the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of a difficult spell of his tenure. It was also excellent groundwork for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that wants to play out, which doesn't defend in a low block and poses an obvious, rampant threat.

“There will be some similarities,” said Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield last season. “We're up against a high-flying side like today and a striker, like today, who was in form. When that happens you have to be precise and I think we showed we were solid collectively defensively.”

Reasons for Success

The manager's reasons for the successful performance against Madrid as well as Villa last weekend – aligned with his analysis of why things went wrong during a run of six defeats in seven matches. Additional rest, avoiding early goals, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley following disrupted preparations played a part. This supported his earlier points and decision to sacrifice the Carabao Cup by using rotated players against Crystal Palace.

• The return of the familiar midfield trio of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch boosted the defense to Liverpool’s backline.
• The overdue return at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, brought composure and authority to a back four.
• Florian Wirtz enjoyed another good night in the Champions League but not from the No 10 role he has occupied in the Premier League.

Szoboszlai’s Influence

Szoboszlai was again Liverpool’s driving influence in the midfield. The Hungary captain is flourishing this season and has established himself as a key figure in Slot’s side.

“What you see is what you get from Dom,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The energy he brings during matches is remarkable, the skill that he has is outstanding and he is developing with every outing.”

Next Challenge

The midfielder started in attack alongside Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad previously as Liverpool surprised City by switching to a 4-2-2-2. That win in February took Liverpool well ahead at the summit with 11 matches 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 mount a comeback.