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Liverpool's manager demanded another performance like Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid as the title holders travel to Manchester City on Sunday. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. Shutting down another of the world's best attackers, while securing a third shutout consecutively, would reinforce Slot's post-Madrid message that Liverpool remain in contention for the biggest prizes.

Ideal Cure for Recent Woes

Their European win 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 the worst run of Slot’s reign. Additionally, it served as perfect preparation for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that prefers to attack, that will not sit in a low block and poses an obvious, rampant threat.

“It will be similar a little bit,” stated Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield last season. “We are facing a very in-form team like today and a striker, like today, who was in form. When that happens you have to be spot-on and I think we showed we were solid collectively defensively.”

Reasons for Success

The manager's reasons for why things went right against Madrid as well as Villa last weekend – aligned with his explanations for the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats 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 previous arguments and decision to sacrifice 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 enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s defense.
• The welcome reappearance at full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, brought composure and leadership to a back four.
• Florian Wirtz impressed again in the Champions League but not in the No 10 role he usually plays in the Premier League.

Szoboszlai’s Influence

Szoboszlai was again Liverpool’s engine in the midfield. His national team skipper is excelling currently and has cemented his place as a key figure in the team.

“What you see is what you get from Dom,” said Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The work rate he brings on the pitch is incredible, the skill that he has is outstanding and he is learning with every outing.”

Next Challenge

The midfielder started up front with Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad previously as Liverpool surprised City by adopting a alternative formation. 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 defeating Madrid, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to mount a comeback.