🔗 Share this article After Neutralizing Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius, Revived Liverpool Target Haaland Arne Slot has called for another performance like the team's showing versus Real Madrid as the title holders visit Manchester City this weekend. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. Shutting down another of the game’s finest strikers, while keeping a third shutout in a row, would reinforce Slot's post-Madrid message that Liverpool remain in the chase for the biggest prizes. Ideal Cure for Poor Form The Champions League victory over the Spanish side's La Liga pace-setters, who had 13 victories from 14 matches before their arrival at Anfield, was the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of the worst run of his tenure. It was also excellent groundwork for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that wants to play out, that will not sit in a low block and poses an obvious, rampant threat. “There will be some similarities,” said Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield the previous campaign. “We are facing 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.” Key Factors Slot’s list 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 the improving fitness of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons played a part. They backed up his previous arguments and choice to prioritize less 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 boosted the defense to Liverpool’s backline. The overdue return at full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started each of Liverpool’s past three wins, restored calmness and authority to a defence. The German playmaker impressed again in the Champions League but not from the No 10 role he usually plays in the Premier League. Dominant Display Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s driving influence in the centre. The Hungary captain is flourishing this season and has cemented his place as a key figure 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 remarkable, the skill that he has is exceptional and he is developing each and every game.” Looking Ahead 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 games to play. This weekend they will be chasing the leaders but, as the manager emphasized after beating Real, there is plenty of road left for Liverpool to stage a recovery.