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Liverpool's manager has called for another performance like the team's showing against Real Madrid when the title holders face Manchester City this weekend. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. Neutralizing another of the game’s finest strikers, while keeping a third clean sheet consecutively, could strengthen the manager's declaration that Liverpool remain in contention for the major trophies.

Perfect Remedy for Poor Form

Their European win over the Spanish side's La Liga leaders, who had 13 wins from 14 matches 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 perfect preparation for what awaits at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that wants to play out, that will not sit in a low block and carries an obvious, rampant threat.

“It will be similar a little bit,” stated Virgil van Dijk, who mastered Haaland at Anfield the previous campaign. “We are facing a high-flying side 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 the successful performance against Madrid as well as Villa on Saturday – were consistent with his analysis of the earlier struggles 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 after injury-hit pre-seasons played a part. This supported his previous arguments 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 boosted the defense to Liverpool’s defense.
• The welcome reappearance at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, restored calmness and authority to a defence.
• 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

Szoboszlai was again Liverpool’s driving influence in the centre. His national team skipper is flourishing this season and has cemented his place as a leader in the team.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” said Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The energy he brings on the pitch is remarkable, the quality that he has is exceptional and he is learning with every outing.”

Next Challenge

The midfielder started in attack alongside Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad last season as Slot caught City cold by adopting a alternative formation. Victory on that February day 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 plenty of road left for Liverpool to stage a recovery.