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Arne Slot requested a repeat of the team's showing versus Real Madrid as the title holders visit Manchester City this weekend. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, read Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Stopping one more of the game’s finest strikers, while securing a third shutout in a row, could strengthen Slot's declaration that Liverpool are still in contention for the biggest prizes.

Perfect Remedy for Recent Woes

Their European win over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga leaders, who had 13 victories from 14 games prior to coming at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of a difficult spell of his tenure. It was also perfect preparation for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that wants to play out, that will not sit in a defensive block and carries an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“There will be some similarities,” said Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield last season. “We're up against 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

Slot’s list for the successful performance against Madrid – and Aston Villa on Saturday – aligned with his explanations for the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats in seven games. More recovery time, 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. They backed up his earlier points and decision to sacrifice the Carabao Cup by fielding a weakened squad against Crystal Palace.

• The comeback 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 defence.
• Florian Wirtz enjoyed another good night in the Champions League but not in the attacking midfield position he usually plays in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

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

“Dom is consistently reliable,” commented Van Dijk. “He is very important. The energy he brings on the pitch is remarkable, the skill that he has is exceptional and he is developing each and every game.”

Looking Ahead

Szoboszlai 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. Victory on that February day took Liverpool 11 points clear at the top with 11 games to play. On Sunday they will be chasing the leaders but, as Slot reminded everyone after defeating Madrid, there is plenty of road left for Liverpool to stage a recovery.