UCL: Van Dijk slams Liverpool’s defense after Fenerbahce defeat

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has warned that his side’s defensive struggles in the Champions League are not sustainable after their disappointing 3-2 defeat to Fenerbahce in Istanbul.

The Reds surrendered a second-half lead after going 2-1 ahead, with all three of Fenerbahce’s goals coming from set-pieces.

Liverpool have now conceded three goals against Fenerbahce, Villarreal and LASK in their last three major European matches, marking the first time in the club’s history they have conceded at least three goals in three consecutive European games.

As reported by BBC Sport on Thursday, Van Dijk admitted that the defensive performance was unacceptable and insisted there was plenty of work to be done.

“It’s definitely not sustainable. That’s why it’s a very disappointing night for many reasons, but definitely because of the goals we conceded and the manner we conceded them as well. There is work to do,” he said.

The Dutch defender was particularly disappointed with his side’s inability to deal with set-pieces, having conceded all three goals from such situations.

“Three set-pieces as well. We have been very good at them so far this season, but we switched off and weren’t ready for the first and second balls. It’s a tough one to take,” he added.

Asked whether the defeat angered him, Van Dijk said he was frustrated but believed the players had every reason to be disappointed.

“Yes, but I didn’t show it because everyone looked disappointed and they have a reason to be – they should be disappointed.
“We cannot lose in the manner we did. But we did and it is down to Fenerbahce as well.”

The defeat marked Liverpool’s second consecutive loss under Andoni Iraola, following a five-game winning run, but Van Dijk believes the difficult period could help strengthen the squad.

The defender stressed the importance of learning from setbacks and building a stronger team bond.

“I mentioned after the last game against Arsenal that we as a group have to go through good moments but also lesser good moments,” he said.

“That will only form a bigger bond and it will be only beneficial. No-one wants to lose games, especially how we did, but it should only help us in the near future.

“We should not accept losing, especially in the manner we did.”

Liverpool have little time to dwell on the disappointment, with the team travelling to Crystal Palace in the Premier League this weekend.

The Reds are currently fifth in the table with 15 points from nine matches, and Van Dijk acknowledged the challenge awaiting them at Selhurst Park.

“It’s massive. When we are back in Liverpool, preparing and recovering physically and mentally, we will be looking forward,” he said.

“It is always tough at Palace and I don’t expect anything different.”

Liverpool will now be hoping to put their European disappointment behind them and return to winning ways against Crystal Palace.