After Stifling Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius, Rejuvenated Liverpool Hone In On Haaland

Liverpool's manager demanded an encore of Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid when the Premier League champions face Manchester City on Sunday. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, substitute Erling Haaland on Sunday. Neutralizing another of the world's best attackers, and securing a third clean sheet consecutively, would reinforce Slot's post-Madrid message that Liverpool are still in the chase for the major trophies.

Perfect Remedy for Recent Woes

Their European win over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga leaders, who had 13 wins from 14 games prior to coming at Anfield, was the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of a difficult spell of his tenure. It was also perfect preparation for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that wants to play out, which doesn't defend in a defensive block and poses an obvious, rampant threat.

“There will be some similarities,” stated Virgil van Dijk, who dominated 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 good as a team defensively.”

Key Factors

The manager's reasons for why things went right against Madrid as well as Villa last weekend – aligned with his analysis of the earlier struggles during a run of six losses in seven matches. Additional rest, avoiding early goals, and the improving fitness of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons were cited. This supported his earlier points and choice 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 welcome reappearance at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, brought composure and authority to a defence.
• Florian Wirtz impressed again in the Champions League but not from the attacking midfield position he has occupied in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

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

“Dom is consistently reliable,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The energy he brings during matches is remarkable, the quality that he has is exceptional and he is learning each and every game.”

Next Challenge

Szoboszlai started up front with Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad previously as Slot caught City cold by adopting a 4-2-2-2. That win in February 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 defeating Madrid, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to mount a comeback.