‘Unfortunately it happened’: Virgil van Dijk’s immediate reaction to Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Man City

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Virgil van Dijk gave his immediate reaction to Manchester City 2-2 Liverpool in an interview with Premier League Productions. The defender was quite frustrated.

Liverpool went to the Etihad Stadium on Sunday and drew 2-2 with Manchester City. The Reds remain one point behind the reigning champions, then, after a pulsating game in the title race.

City took the lead through a deflected Kevin De Bruyne effort – though, Liverpool really should have cleared it beforehand. They reacted well with a rapid equaliser but fell behind again after sloppy defending.

Fortunately, Liverpool struck immediately after the break to equalise for a second time. It didn’t exactly feel as though that was the end of the scoring. Neither side could find another, however, as City saw a third chalked off for offside.

So what did the Liverpool players think of that one? Virgil van Dijk gave an interview immediately after the final whistle to Premier League Productions – and he clearly wasn’t happy with the defending.

Virgil van Dijk on Liverpool

“Obviously, it was always going to be an intense game,” said Van Dijk. “Also a game that was end-to-end, I think, because of the quality both teams have.

“We don’t want to concede goals at all but unfortunately it happened today. I think the second half was a good half for us, especially the start, of course, with the early goal.

“But I think overall, a well-deserved draw, I think. We shouldn’t come from behind, in my opinion. But it’s a situation we have to deal with and we have the character, we have the quality and we have to stay patient and play football, especially, against them.

“At times it’s difficult to find the free space between the lines because they press good.”

Manchester City 2-2 Liverpool

Liverpool really could have avoided both goals here – we’re not sure City will say the same about the ones they conceded. The Reds let their concentration slip on two occasions, though.

It’s a shame – and Van Dijk knows it – but he’s right that Liverpool showed the right kind of character to strike back twice. So definitely reasons to be frustrated but enough to smile about, too.

Now it becomes a season of seven finals. If Liverpool can win all seven – a big ask, admittedly – City must do the same. “Game on,” as Van Dijk went on to say.