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Following Containing Mbappé and Vinícius, Revived Liverpool Target Haaland
Arne Slot requested another performance like Liverpool’s display versus Real Madrid when the title holders travel to Manchester City this weekend. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, read Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Neutralizing one more of the game’s finest strikers, and securing a third shutout in a row, would reinforce Slot's declaration that Liverpool are still in contention for the major trophies.
Perfect Remedy for Poor Form
The Champions League victory over the Spanish side's La Liga leaders, who had 13 wins from 14 games before their arrival at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of a difficult spell of his tenure. Additionally, it served as perfect preparation for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that wants to play out, which doesn't defend in a low block and poses an obvious, rampant threat.
“There will be some similarities,” said Virgil van Dijk, who mastered Haaland at Anfield last season. “We're up against a very in-form team 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.”
Key Factors
Slot’s list for why things went right against Madrid – and Aston Villa on Saturday – were consistent with his analysis of why things went wrong during a run of six defeats in seven matches. Additional rest, not conceding first, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley following disrupted preparations were cited. This supported his earlier points and decision to prioritize less the Carabao Cup by using rotated players against Crystal Palace.
- The comeback of the familiar midfield trio of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch boosted the defense to Liverpool’s backline.
- The welcome reappearance at full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, brought composure and authority to a back four.
- The German playmaker impressed again in the Champions League but not in 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 flourishing currently and has established himself as a key figure in Slot’s side.
“Dom is consistently reliable,” said Van Dijk. “He is very important. The work rate he brings on the pitch is remarkable, the quality that he has is outstanding and he is learning each and every game.”
Next Challenge
Szoboszlai started in attack alongside Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad previously as Liverpool surprised City by adopting a alternative formation. Victory on that February day put Liverpool 11 points clear at the summit with 11 matches to play. On Sunday they will be playing catch-up but, as the manager emphasized after beating Real, there is plenty of road left for Liverpool to stage a recovery.
John Robertson
Professional poker player and coach with over a decade of experience, specializing in tournament strategy and mental game techniques.
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