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Liverpool's manager demanded another performance like the team's showing against Real Madrid as the title holders face Manchester City this weekend. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. Stopping one more of the game’s finest strikers, while securing a third clean sheet consecutively, would reinforce the manager's declaration that Liverpool are still in contention for the major trophies.

Ideal Cure for Poor Form

The Champions League victory over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga leaders, who had 13 victories from 14 games before their arrival at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of a difficult spell of his tenure. It was also excellent groundwork for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that prefers to attack, which doesn't defend in a defensive 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 on fire. When that happens you have to be spot-on and I think we showed we were good as a team defensively.”

Reasons for Success

The manager's reasons for why things went right against Madrid as well as Villa on Saturday – were consistent with his analysis of the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats in seven games. More recovery time, avoiding early goals, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley following disrupted preparations were cited. This supported his earlier points and decision to prioritize less the Carabao Cup by fielding a weakened squad against Crystal Palace.

• The return of the familiar midfield trio of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s defense.
• The welcome reappearance at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started each of Liverpool’s past three wins, restored calmness and authority to a defence.
• Florian Wirtz enjoyed another good night in the Champions League but not in 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 flourishing this season and has cemented his place as a key figure in the team.

“What you see is what you get from Dom,” said Van Dijk. “He is very important. The energy he brings during matches is remarkable, the skill that he has is exceptional and he is developing each and every game.”

Next Challenge

The midfielder started up front alongside Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad last season as Slot caught City cold by switching to a 4-2-2-2. That win in February put Liverpool well ahead 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 a long way to go for Liverpool to stage a recovery.