Van Dijk Makes Champions League History in Liverpool Rout

Van Dijk Sets Unique Champions League Record for Liverpool

Virgil van Dijk made Champions League history as Liverpool captain in their emphatic 6-0 victory over Qarabag at Anfield, becoming the first centre-back ever to register a hat-trick of assists in a single Champions League match. The Dutch international, renowned for his defensive prowess, turned provider in a dominant European display that saw the Reds secure a comfortable passage to the Round of 16.

Liverpool Dominate Qarabag with Five Different Scorers

The Reds were relentless from the opening whistle, overwhelming Azerbaijani opposition with pace, skill, and clinical finishing. Five different Liverpool players found the back of the net, showcasing the squad depth manager Arne Slot has at his disposal. Despite not scoring himself, Van Dijk took command at both ends of the pitch—organizing a defense that kept a valuable clean sheet and supplying the creative spark that drove Liverpool forward.

Historic Assists from the Heart of Defense

Van Dijk’s historic feat began in the 15th minute, when his intelligent header set up Alexis Mac Allister to break the deadlock. He then unleashed a pinpoint long ball in the second half, slicing through the Qarabag defense and allowing Hugo Ekitike to double Liverpool’s lead. In stoppage time, Van Dijk capped his night by teeing up Federico Chiesa for the sixth and final goal. These contributions have elevated Van Dijk’s Champions League tally to five direct goal involvements this season, just behind only Dominik Szoboszlai.

Van Dijk’s All-Round Leadership Shines

Consistency at the back has been challenging for Liverpool in the 2025-26 campaign, but Van Dijk’s leadership and defensive organization were on full display. Achieving a clean sheet in Europe is always significant, and it was made sweeter by his unprecedented attacking contribution. For more news and updates on Liverpool’s Champions League run, visit for more news.

Liverpool Secure Champions League Last 16 Spot

Liverpool’s dominant group stage ensures a direct place in the Champions League last 16, avoiding the dangers of the knockout play-off round. Head coach Arne Slot expressed his satisfaction post-match, emphasizing the club’s progress and hunger for continental success: “When you start the Champions League season, you want to finish in the top eight. That helps because you skip a round, and you could have a really tough draw otherwise. We’re happy to be straight in the last 16, especially after only two years since we were in the Europa League.”

Squad Depth and Potential January Transfers

With injuries piling up—most recently to Jeremie Frimpong—Slot hinted that Liverpool may seek reinforcements before the transfer window closes in early February. The club’s transfer philosophy, according to Slot, remains focused not only on immediate needs but also on long-term development, targeting young talents who can grow at Anfield.

Liverpool’s Focus Shifts to Premier League

Currently sitting sixth in the Premier League, Liverpool are preparing to host Newcastle in their next domestic fixture. The combination of Van Dijk’s form, the return of key players, and potential new arrivals could be crucial as the Reds aim to climb the league table and maintain their European momentum.

Opinion: Van Dijk’s Evolution Elevates Liverpool

Van Dijk’s hat-trick of assists not only underscores his technical ability but also highlights his evolving role under Arne Slot. His capacity to influence games both defensively and offensively sets a new benchmark for centre-backs at the elite level. With the knockout stages ahead, Liverpool fans will hope their captain continues to lead by example—organizing the defense and, as this match proved, sparking attacks that can dismantle any opponent.