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Arne Slot requested another performance like the team's showing versus Real Madrid as the Premier League champions face Manchester City this weekend. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, read Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Shutting down one more of the world's best attackers, while securing a third shutout consecutively, could strengthen Slot's declaration that Liverpool are still in the chase for the major trophies.

Ideal Cure for Poor Form

Their European win over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga leaders, 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 a difficult spell of Slot’s reign. It was also perfect preparation for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that prefers to attack, which doesn't defend in a defensive block and carries an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“It will be similar a little bit,” 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 spot-on and I think we showed we were good as a team defensively.”

Key Factors

Slot’s list for the successful performance against Madrid – and Aston Villa on Saturday – aligned with his explanations for why things went wrong during a run of six losses in seven matches. More recovery time, not conceding first, and the improving fitness 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 fielding a weakened squad against Crystal Palace.

• The return of last season’s midfield core of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch boosted the defense to Liverpool’s backline.
• The welcome reappearance 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 attacking midfield position he has occupied in the Premier League.

Szoboszlai’s Influence

Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s driving influence in the centre. His national team skipper is excelling currently and has established himself as a key figure in the team.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The energy he brings during matches is remarkable, the quality that he has is outstanding and he is learning each and every game.”

Looking Ahead

Szoboszlai started up front alongside Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad previously as Liverpool surprised City by adopting a alternative formation. Victory on that February day took Liverpool well ahead at the top with 11 matches to play. This weekend they will be chasing the leaders but, as the manager emphasized after beating Real, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to stage a recovery.