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Arne Slot requested a repeat of the team's showing against Real Madrid when the Premier League champions travel to Manchester City on Sunday. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, substitute Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Neutralizing one more of the world's best attackers, and keeping a third shutout in a row, could strengthen the manager's declaration that Liverpool are still in the chase for the biggest prizes.

Perfect Remedy for Poor Form

The Champions League victory over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga pace-setters, who had 13 victories from 14 matches before their arrival at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of a difficult spell of Slot’s reign. It was also perfect preparation for what awaits at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that wants to play out, which doesn't defend in a defensive block and carries an obvious, rampant threat.

“It will be similar a little bit,” said Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield the previous campaign. “We're up against a very in-form team 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.”

Key Factors

Slot’s list for the successful performance against Madrid as well as Villa last weekend – were consistent with his explanations for why things went wrong during a run of six losses in seven games. Additional rest, not conceding first, and the improving fitness 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 sacrifice the Carabao Cup by using rotated players against Crystal Palace.

• The comeback of last season’s midfield core of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch boosted the defense to Liverpool’s defense.
• The overdue return at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, restored calmness and authority to a defence.
• Florian Wirtz enjoyed another good night in the Champions League but not from the attacking midfield position he usually plays in the Premier League.

Szoboszlai’s Influence

Szoboszlai was again Liverpool’s driving influence in the centre. The Hungary captain is flourishing currently and has established himself as a leader in the team.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The work rate he brings during matches is incredible, the quality that he has is exceptional and he is learning with every outing.”

Looking Ahead

The midfielder started up front alongside Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad last season as Liverpool surprised City by switching to a alternative formation. That win in February put Liverpool well ahead at the summit with 11 games to play. On Sunday they will be chasing the leaders but, as Slot reminded everyone after defeating Madrid, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to stage a recovery.