If Arne Slot was watching his country’s narrow Nations League elimination at the hands of Spain, he might have felt a twinge of regret over his Champions League penalty order against PSG. Netherlands and Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk calmly converted the first spot kick of this latest shootout — and while it was not enough, he has still received widespreasd praise for his performance.
The final scoreline does not scream “defensive masterclass”; the Netherlands shipped three goals, with a pulsating tie finishing 5-5 on aggregate (Cody Gakpo found the net in a 2-2 draw in Spain). Yet Van Dijk was up against one of the most feared attacks in international football right now, inspired by the hugely exciting Lamine Yamal.
And though his defense was breached three times, Van Dijk repelled Spain on countless further occasions, earning the plaudits of a national media that has been hard to please at times. He has faced accusations of being unable to carry across his Anfield form to the Netherlands, but has emerged from the Nations League with credit.
Naturally, Van Dijk had his eyes on silverware. He admitted that elimination was extremely disappointing: “Losing just hurts,” he said in the wake of the defeat. “It was a great football fight, but we are out. That’s disappointing. We could’ve made it, but unfortunately Spain progressed.”
Even so, he might be able to take some solace in the praise coming his way. Voetbal International described the back line as “excellent”, handing Van Dijk an 8/10 for his performance.
The only player to receive a higher rating was Ian Maatsen. The Aston Villa full-back only received an emergency call-up after issues for various others, but impressed with a goal.
(Image: ANP via Getty Images)
De Telegraaf was similarly enamored with Maatsen, but also found time to single out Van Dijk. It credited the Liverpool defender’s role in a “beautiful attack” at the start of the second half, one which was ultimately spurned by Justin Kluivert.
Meanwhile, Football Oranje called it a captain’s performance from Van Dijk. It praised him for “leading the team from the back”, and dealing with multiple situations despite the defense being left open at times — scoring him a 7.5/10.
In the interests of balance, Give Me Sport had a different perspective. While it begrudgingly conceded that Van Dijk was “a level above the rest of his backline”, it questioned his role in Spain’s second goal, concluding that it was “not his best work” and handing him a 6/10.
But you’ll never escape the critics entirely. After impressing over 120 minutes, Van Dijk even stepped up from the spot, so it’s hard to argue with the conclusion of Football Oranje — it was a captain’s performance from a true leader, and he can return to Liverpool with his head held high.
Hopefully, his thirst for silverware will also soon be quenched, with Slot’s side on the verge of Premier League glory. After that, Van Dijk’s attentions will turn to World Cup qualification.
