Van Dijk delivers fiery remarks ahead of Liverpool's UCL clash with Galatasaray, eyeing comeback to quarterfinals.
On 18 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool's captain and defender from the English Premier League's fifth-placed team, shared inspiring words through the club's matchday program ahead of the UEFA Champions League 2025-26 round of 16 second leg. Liverpool will host Galatasaray, the Turkish top league leaders, in a match kicking off tonight at 03:00 GMT+7.
Liverpool face a disadvantage after losing the first leg away 0-1, the same scoreline as their previous defeat in the league phase on 30 Sep. This season, the "Reds" remain contenders only in two competitions: the UEFA Champions League and the FA Cup, where they have reached the quarterfinals to face Manchester City.
Virgil van Dijk urged Liverpool to rally ahead of their chance to overturn Galatasaray and reach the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, saying, "This is a night for all of us to unite and enjoy it, whether as players or fans."
"The UCL is a special competition with great significance for this football club and every player. Being in a position with the opportunity to reach the quarterfinals is both a privilege and a fantastic chance."
"I don't want to dwell much on what happened in the game against Tottenham on Sunday (a 1-1 draw at Anfield), but I can say we are all deeply disappointed by the result, just like you. Tonight is about channeling that disappointment and showing the right response to it."
"We know what we have to do tonight. We know we must work hard after the first leg in Istanbul, but we are all looking forward to this game, and I am fully confident in our ability to turn things around at our home."
"European nights at Anfield are always special. There has been much talk about the atmosphere in Turkey, and it's true that it was loud and impressive, but I know you will create even greater cheers and enthusiasm tonight."
"Nights like this are the heart of Anfield. With the cheers, passion, and support you always give us, I hope we can deliver a performance that impresses you tonight—with energy, determination, focus, and quality."
"As I said, we understand how disappointed you were on Sunday, and we feel the same. Believe me. But at times like this, it's vital that we unite and fight together. We are much stronger when we stand as one, and today is another day, another big game, another opportunity to show our best side."
"Galatasaray showed again last week they are a dangerous and disciplined team. They deserve our respect, and they will get it. But I have confidence in this team, in these players, and if we perform at the level we know we can, we will have a good chance to advance."
"That is the goal. Nothing else. Let's give everything we have for the full 90 minutes or more. Let's play with confidence and belief, and let's put everything out on the pitch."
"But above all, let's do it together. I can't wait to see and hear all of you this evening."