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Arne Slot has called for an encore of Liverpool’s display versus Real Madrid when the title holders visit Manchester City on Sunday. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, substitute Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Shutting down one more of the game’s finest strikers, and securing a third shutout consecutively, would reinforce the manager's post-Madrid message that Liverpool remain in contention for the biggest prizes.

Perfect Remedy for Poor Form

The Champions League victory over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga leaders, who had 13 wins from 14 matches prior to coming at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of the worst run of Slot’s reign. It was also perfect preparation for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that prefers to attack, which doesn't defend in a defensive block and poses an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“There will be some similarities,” stated Virgil van Dijk, who mastered Haaland at Anfield last season. “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.”

Reasons for Success

The manager's reasons for the successful performance against Madrid as well as Villa on Saturday – were consistent with his explanations for the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats in seven games. Additional rest, not conceding first, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons were cited. They backed up his earlier points and decision 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 enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s backline.
• The welcome reappearance at full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started each of Liverpool’s past three wins, brought composure and leadership to a back four.
• Florian Wirtz enjoyed another good night in the Champions League but not from the No 10 role he has occupied in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

Szoboszlai was again Liverpool’s engine in the midfield. The Hungary captain is excelling this season and has cemented his place as a key figure in Slot’s side.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” commented Van Dijk. “He is very important. The work rate he brings during matches is remarkable, the skill that he has is outstanding and he is learning with every outing.”

Next Challenge

The midfielder started in attack alongside Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad previously as Slot caught City cold by adopting a alternative formation. That win in February took Liverpool 11 points clear at the summit with 11 games to play. This weekend they will be playing catch-up but, as the manager emphasized after beating Real, there is plenty of road left for Liverpool to mount a comeback.