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Liverpool's manager has called for an encore of the team's showing against Real Madrid when the title holders visit Manchester City on Sunday. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, substitute Erling Haaland on Sunday. Shutting down another of the world's best attackers, and securing a third shutout consecutively, would reinforce Slot's post-Madrid message that Liverpool are still in the chase for the major trophies.

Perfect Remedy for Poor Form

The Champions League victory over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga leaders, who had 13 victories from 14 matches before their arrival at Anfield, was the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of the worst run of his tenure. It was also excellent groundwork for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that prefers to attack, that will not sit in a low block and poses an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“There will be some similarities,” stated Virgil van Dijk, who mastered Haaland at Anfield the previous campaign. “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 solid collectively defensively.”

Key Factors

The manager's reasons for why things went right 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, avoiding early goals, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley following disrupted preparations were cited. They backed up his previous arguments 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 enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s defense.
• The overdue return at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started each of Liverpool’s past three wins, brought composure and authority to a back four.
• Florian Wirtz enjoyed another good night in the Champions League but not in the No 10 role he has occupied in the Premier League.

Szoboszlai’s Influence

Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s engine in the midfield. His national team skipper is flourishing currently and has established himself as a leader in Slot’s side.

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

Next Challenge

Szoboszlai started in attack with Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad last season as Slot caught City cold by switching to a alternative formation. Victory on that February day took Liverpool 11 points clear at the top with 11 games to play. This weekend 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.