- Van Dijk sends message ahead of PSG clash
- Recalls past games to motivate teammates and fans
- Confident of making a comeback in the tie
Liverpool host Paris Saint-Germain in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals today, April 14, at Anfield.
Ahead of the match, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has delivered a message to the supporters in the matchday programme, saying that they must stick together with the players to get the result needed to progress in the competition. The Reds need to come back from 2-0 down to make it to the semifinal.
The captain has admitted that the position they find themselves in is different from the previous years, but is confident that the Anfield fans will push them over the line.
“The circumstances may be a little different, but this is a familiar place we find ourselves in. Anfield, a big UEFA Champions League night, a top opponent, and the chance, together, to do something really special as a club.”
“I couldn’t be looking forward to tonight more, and I hope you guys feel the same. Yes, we know the size and the scale of the task facing us, but these are the games, the nights that we all live for. If you can’t get excited for this, then you’re in the wrong sport, in my opinion.”
Van Dijk looking for ‘something special’ at Anfield
Van Dijk wants the fans to be on top of their game today, recalling the atmosphere they have created in the past while facing Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Barcelona in Europe elite competition.
He believes it will play a crucial role against PSG, who come into the game after a week-long rest, as their Ligue 1 clash against RC Lens was postponed at their request.
“I said after the first leg in Paris that we will need something special if we are to progress to the semifinals, and that applies first and foremost to our own performance, but also to the atmosphere and the support that you guys will provide. Both will need to be absolutely spot on if we are to have a chance.
“I have been very lucky to experience those nights where the connection between the fans and the performance has been unbelievable. I think of Manchester City, Roma, Barcelona of course, even Real Madrid both this season and last, and I can assure you all that everyone in this dressing room believes we can do something again this evening.”
Liverpool come into the game after a 2-0 win over Fulham, and a similar result tonight would see the game go into extra time, and then the penalty shootout if the scoreline remains level after the 30 extra minutes.
Liverpool were not good enough in the first leg
Jamie Redknapp was highly critical of Liverpool’s performance in the first leg, saying that the tactics used by Arne Slot were not the main reason for the loss. He claimed the players lacked intensity on the pitch, which led to the 2-0 defeat.
Van Dijk admitted that the performance was not good enough, but is confident that they will bounce back in the second leg. He said
“Yes, the performance in Paris was not good enough, and we must improve in every area if we are to have a chance. Anfield, though, is different, and hopefully we can show that tonight. t starts with us, with our belief and our mentality. With every challenge, every tackle, every header, every run, every attack, we have to show intent and commitment and desire. PSG are a very good team, and we have to be ready to do the hard yards for 90+ minutes – and more if necessary.”
“Like I say, I am looking forward to the game immensely. These are the occasions we have to embrace, every one of us together. Let’s give it everything we have, and hopefully we can write another special chapter in Liverpool’s history. This week is a hugely important one for the club, both on and off the pitch, as tomorrow we mark the 37th anniversary of Hillsborough.”
Off the pitch, Van Dijk also reflected on the significance of the week, as the club marked the anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster.
“We want to honour the men, women and children who lost their lives,” he said. “You are in our thoughts, on this day and always.”
The Kop is set to be without flags and banners once again as fans continue their protest against ticket price increases.
There is also added tension, with Van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister all one booking away from suspension.
But the message from the captain is simple – focus on the moment.
“Let’s give everything we have,” Van Dijk said. “Hopefully we can write another special chapter in this club’s history.”
