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Arne Slot requested another performance like the team's showing versus Real Madrid as the title holders face Manchester City on Sunday. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, read Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Stopping another of the game’s finest strikers, and keeping a third clean sheet in a row, could strengthen the manager's declaration that Liverpool remain in the chase for the biggest prizes.

Ideal Cure for Poor Form

The Champions League victory over the Spanish side's La Liga leaders, who had 13 victories from 14 matches prior to coming at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of a difficult spell of Slot’s reign. 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 defensive block and poses an obvious, rampant threat.

“There will be some similarities,” stated Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield the previous campaign. “We are facing a high-flying side like today and a striker, like today, who was on fire. When that happens you have to be spot-on and I think we showed we were solid collectively defensively.”

Reasons for Success

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 matches. Additional rest, not conceding first, and the improving fitness of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons played a part. This supported his earlier points and decision to prioritize less 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 enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s backline.
• The overdue return at full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, brought composure and leadership to a defence.
• The German playmaker impressed again in the Champions League but not from the No 10 role he has occupied in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

Szoboszlai was again Liverpool’s driving influence in the centre. His national team skipper is flourishing this season and has established himself as a leader in the team.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The energy he brings on the pitch is incredible, the skill that he has is exceptional and he is developing with every outing.”

Next Challenge

The midfielder started up front with Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad previously as Slot caught City cold by switching to a 4-2-2-2. That win in February put Liverpool 11 points clear at the summit with 11 games to play. On Sunday 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.