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Liverpool's manager requested a repeat of Liverpool’s display versus Real Madrid as the title holders travel to Manchester City this weekend. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, read Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Stopping another of the world's best attackers, while keeping a third clean sheet consecutively, could strengthen the manager's post-Madrid message that Liverpool are still in the chase for the major trophies.

Ideal Cure for Poor Form

The Champions League victory over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga pace-setters, who had 13 wins from 14 games prior to coming at Anfield, was the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of the worst run of his tenure. Additionally, it served as excellent groundwork for what awaits at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that wants to play out, which doesn't defend in a low block and carries an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“There will be some similarities,” said Virgil van Dijk, who mastered Haaland at Anfield last season. “We're up against a very in-form team 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

The manager's reasons for the successful performance against Madrid as well as Villa last weekend – aligned with his explanations for why things went wrong during a run of six losses in seven games. Additional rest, not conceding first, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley following disrupted preparations played a part. They backed up his previous arguments and decision to prioritize less the Carabao Cup by fielding a weakened squad against Crystal Palace.

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

Dominant Display

Szoboszlai was again Liverpool’s driving influence in the centre. His national team skipper is excelling this season and has cemented his place as a key figure in Slot’s side.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” said Van Dijk. “He is very important. 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 Liverpool surprised City by switching to a 4-2-2-2. Victory on that February day took Liverpool well ahead at the summit with 11 matches to play. On Sunday they will be playing catch-up but, as Slot reminded everyone after defeating Madrid, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to stage a recovery.