Following Containing Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior, Rejuvenated Liverpool Hone In On Haaland

Liverpool's manager requested a repeat of Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid when the Premier League champions face Manchester City on Sunday. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. Neutralizing one more of the game’s finest strikers, while securing a third clean sheet consecutively, could strengthen the manager's post-Madrid message that Liverpool remain in contention for the major trophies.

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 aiming to recover from the wounds of a difficult spell of his tenure. It was also excellent groundwork for what awaits 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.

“It will be similar a little bit,” said Virgil van Dijk, who mastered Haaland at Anfield the previous campaign. “We're up against a high-flying side 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 the successful performance against Madrid – and Aston Villa last weekend – were consistent with his analysis of the earlier struggles during a run of six losses in seven games. More recovery time, avoiding early goals, 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 choice to sacrifice 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 enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s defense.
• The overdue return at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started each of Liverpool’s past three wins, brought composure and leadership 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

Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s engine in the midfield. The Hungary captain is flourishing this season and has cemented his place as a leader in Slot’s side.

“What you see is what you get from Dom,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The energy he brings during matches is incredible, the quality that he has is exceptional and he is developing each and every game.”

Next Challenge

The midfielder started up front alongside Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad previously as Liverpool surprised City by switching to a alternative formation. That win in February took Liverpool 11 points clear at the top with 11 matches to play. This weekend they will be playing catch-up but, as the manager emphasized after beating Real, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to stage a recovery.