PSG 2-0 Liverpool: Van Dijk Calls for Anfield Response After Defeat in Paris

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk admitted his side faced ‘tough, tough work’ against the reigning Champions League holders but insisted the tie remains alive ahead of next week’s second leg at Anfield.

Speaking to TNT Sports after the loss, Van Dijk reflected on the defensive effort, noting that Liverpool had ‘a lot of bodies around the box’ but were undone by a deflected opener.

He acknowledged missed opportunities on the counterattack and stressed the need for sharper play in possession when they return home.

On the tactical challenge of facing the champions with a back five, Van Dijk explained: ‘They obviously move around everywhere, basically. You have to communicate well, you have to follow your man. You have to take risks in that sense as well, sometimes.

‘Wait for the right moment to win the ball and hopefully do them on the counter. I think we had some opportunities to do that. We didn’t do it too well. But hopefully we can be much better, especially in possession, at Anfield.’

The Dutch defender also highlighted the quality of the opposition, reminding that Liverpool were up against last season’s winners: ‘You see the games they’ve played already this season, even in the league, but also in the Champions League, and how good they can be. So we have to be absolutely spot on with everything we do next week.’

Looking ahead to the return leg, Van Dijk called on the Anfield crowd to play their part: ‘Hopefully our fans can play a big part in that. I’ve been through many special evenings at Anfield – I’m very lucky and privileged, and our fans, they’re the backbone of the club, and hopefully they can be there for us again.’