Van Dijk: Liverpool Must Build from the Back

Liverpool Captain Van Dijk praises team's defensive efforts

Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk emphasized the need for his team to focus on solid defending after their 1-0 win over Real Madrid in the Champions League. He praised the team's hard work and organization, which limited Real Madrid's scoring opportunities.

“You can see at the moment Arsenal are flying, and it is down to clean sheets and not conceding chances...”

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk emphasized the importance of building from the back after their 1-0 win over Real Madrid in the Champions League. He noted that his team's strong defensive performance was key to their success, limiting Real Madrid to very few opportunities despite their opponents' prolific scoring form.

Prior to their 2-0 win over Aston Villa on Saturday, Liverpool had endured a tough run, losing six of their previous seven games and failing to keep a clean sheet in 10 consecutive matches. However, the Reds bounced back with a strong defensive display against Real Madrid, with goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher's counterparts Thibaut Courtois making crucial saves to prevent a more significant scoreline.

“It is easy to say now because we won twice in a row. In a world of chaos you have to stay calm and see perspective of things,” said Van Dijk.

“We all know how football works - it can change overnight.”

Arsenal tops the Premier League table, holding a 7-point lead over Liverpool. The Gunners have also had a stellar start to the Champions League campaign, winning their first four games and maintaining an impressive streak of eight consecutive clean sheets.

GET IN THERE!!! 👊💫 #UCL pic.twitter.com/b3aNb9gSQe

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) November 4, 2025

Liverpool's title defense will face a significant challenge this Sunday when they take on Manchester City's Erling Haaland, who has scored 26 goals this season. Virgil van Dijk will be crucial in defending against Haaland's attacking prowess.

“You can see at the moment Arsenal are flying, and it is down to clean sheets and not conceding chances,” added Van Dijk.

“We have the quality to hurt anyone on the break - it starts with the defending. Today you saw the hard work.

“We have to keep going. Sunday is going to be another difficult one.”

Liverpool manager Arne Slot emphasized the significance of playing at Anfield, where his team has shown remarkable form over the past week. The Reds have only suffered two home defeats this season, with one of those losses coming in a League Cup match against Crystal Palace, when Slot chose to field a largely experimental lineup featuring several young players and fringe squad members.

This impressive home record has been a key factor in Liverpool's resurgence, with the team securing crucial wins in front of their passionate supporters. In contrast, Liverpool's away performances have been more inconsistent, contributing to their six defeats this season. Slot's comments highlight the importance of Anfield as a fortress for the Reds, providing them with a vital boost in their pursuit of domestic and European success.

The Reds have only lost two games at home this season, both results coming against strong opposition. Anfield has proven to be a challenging venue for opposing teams, with Liverpool's energetic and passionate fans creating an intimidating atmosphere that can unsettle even the most experienced opponents. As Liverpool continues to navigate a demanding schedule, Slot will be keenly aware of the importance of securing positive results at Anfield.

In their most recent home match, Liverpool secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League, with Alexis Mac Allister scoring the decisive goal. This win not only showcased the team's determination and resilience but also highlighted the impact of Anfield's electric atmosphere on the game.

“It helps if you can play in front of these fans and you can play in front of Real Madrid because I think that brings the best out of my players and out of our fans,” said Slot.

“A great performance against a team that only lost once all season. It could have been a bit more maybe.”

Trent Alexander-Arnold received a frosty welcome on his return to Anfield as a late substitute for Real Madrid. The England international was booed by Liverpool fans as he came on in the second half.

Alexander-Arnold had previously been a fan favorite at Anfield, winning seven major trophies with Liverpool, including the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup. However, his decision to join Real Madrid in the summer was met with criticism from the Liverpool faithful.

The hostile reception seemed to have little impact on Alexander-Arnold, who remained focused on the game. Liverpool ultimately won the match 1-0, with Alexis Mac Allister scoring the decisive goal.

Conor Bradley has had a mixed start to the season, struggling to establish himself as Trent Alexander-Arnold's permanent replacement at right-back. However, the Northern Irish full-back put in an outstanding performance against Real Madrid, successfully nullifying the threat of Vinicius Junior.

Bradley's impressive display was matched by the defensive solidity of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, who kept Kylian Mbappe quiet throughout the match. The defensive trio's strong performance was crucial to Liverpool's 1-0 win over the French giants.

Virgil Van Dijk:

"I think if you [Rooney] watched games then I would definitely take responsibility. Your comment about me signing my deal [and then not leading or performing well] it was a bit much.. I would let that slide.." pic.twitter.com/tjyqTC4QCf

— LFC Transfer Room (@LFCTransferRoom) November 4, 2025

“I said before the game that they have scored 26 goals in La Liga, and Mbappe and Vinicius together have 24 goal contributions (goals or assists),” added Slot.

“If you want to win this game you have to make sure that these two are not on the scoresheet.

“Conor was outstanding. To be up against Vinicius so many times one against one is not for everyone. He did outstanding today.”