After Neutralizing Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior, Resurgent Liverpool Target Haaland

Liverpool's manager requested an encore of the team's showing against Real Madrid as the title holders visit Manchester City on Sunday. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, substitute Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Shutting down one more of the world's best attackers, while keeping a third clean sheet in a row, would reinforce the manager's declaration that Liverpool remain 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 games before their arrival at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of a difficult spell of his tenure. Additionally, it served as perfect preparation for what awaits 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,” stated 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 on fire. When that happens you have to be precise 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 – aligned with his analysis of the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats in seven games. More recovery time, 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 earlier points and decision to sacrifice the Carabao Cup by fielding a weakened squad against Crystal Palace.

• The comeback of last season’s midfield core of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s defense.
• The overdue return at full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started each of Liverpool’s past three wins, brought composure and leadership to a back four.
• The German playmaker impressed again in the Champions League but not from the attacking midfield position he usually plays in the Premier League.

Szoboszlai’s Influence

Once more, Szoboszlai served as 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.

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

Next Challenge

The midfielder started up front with Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad previously as Slot caught City cold by switching to a alternative formation. Victory on that February day took Liverpool 11 points clear at the summit with 11 matches to play. On Sunday they will be chasing the leaders but, as the manager emphasized after beating Real, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to stage a recovery.