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Liverpool's manager has called for an encore of Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid as the title holders face Manchester City on Sunday. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, substitute Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Stopping one more of the world's best attackers, while keeping a third shutout in a row, could strengthen Slot's post-Madrid message that Liverpool are still in contention for the biggest prizes.

Perfect Remedy for Recent Woes

Their European win over the Spanish side's La Liga leaders, who had 13 wins from 14 games prior to coming at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of the worst run of his tenure. It was also excellent groundwork 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 mastered Haaland at Anfield last season. “We are facing a very in-form team 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.”

Reasons for Success

Slot’s list for why things went right against Madrid as well as Villa on Saturday – were consistent with his analysis of why things went wrong during a run of six losses in seven matches. More recovery time, 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 earlier points and choice 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 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 leadership to a defence.
• The German playmaker enjoyed another good night in the Champions League but not from the attacking midfield position he usually plays in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s engine in the midfield. The Hungary captain is flourishing this season and has established himself as a key figure in Slot’s side.

“What you see is what you get from Dom,” commented Van Dijk. “He is very important. The energy he brings on the pitch is remarkable, the quality that he has is exceptional and he is developing with every outing.”

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 alternative formation. Victory on that February day put Liverpool 11 points clear at the top with 11 games to play. On Sunday they will be playing catch-up but, as the manager emphasized after defeating Madrid, there is plenty of road left for Liverpool to mount a comeback.