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Liverpool's manager demanded another performance like the team's showing versus Real Madrid as the Premier League champions travel to Manchester City this weekend. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. Shutting down one more of the world's best attackers, and securing a third shutout consecutively, could strengthen Slot's declaration that Liverpool are still in the chase for the biggest prizes.

Perfect Remedy for Poor Form

Their European win over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga pace-setters, who had 13 wins from 14 matches prior to coming at Anfield, was the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of the worst run of Slot’s reign. Additionally, it served as excellent groundwork for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that wants to play out, which doesn't defend in a low block and carries an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

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

Key Factors

Slot’s list for why things went right 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 games. Additional rest, avoiding early goals, and better conditioning 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 sacrifice the Carabao Cup by using rotated players against Crystal Palace.

• The return of the familiar midfield trio of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch boosted the defense to Liverpool’s backline.
• The overdue return at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, restored calmness and leadership to a defence.
• Florian Wirtz impressed again in the Champions League but not in the No 10 role he usually plays in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

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

“What you see is what you get from Dom,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The energy he brings on the pitch is incredible, the skill that he has is exceptional and he is learning each and every game.”

Next Challenge

The midfielder started in attack with Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad last season as Liverpool surprised City 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 chasing the leaders but, as Slot reminded everyone after beating Real, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to stage a recovery.