Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk etched his name into Champions League history after producing a performance rarely seen from a central defender during the Reds’ emphatic European victory over Qarabag. The Dutchman reached an unprecedented milestone as Liverpool cruised to a dominant 6-0 win, delivering a reminder of his all-round influence under head coach Arne Slot.
While Van Dijk’s reputation has long been built on defensive authority, leadership and composure at the back, this night at Anfield showcased an entirely different dimension of his game. Without finding the net himself, the Liverpool skipper played a decisive role in the attacking phase, helping dismantle Qarabag with a display that will live long in the competition’s record books.
Liverpool overwhelm Qarabag in ruthless display
The Reds were in complete control from the opening stages, overwhelming their Azerbaijani visitors with relentless pressure and fluid attacking movement. Five different Liverpool players found the net as the hosts ran riot, ensuring there would be no late drama or narrow margins on the night.
Although Van Dijk did not add a goal to the scoreline, his influence was felt throughout the contest. The centre-back anchored a defence that rarely looked troubled while also playing a pivotal role in Liverpool’s attacking output — a rare combination at the highest level of European football.
Clean sheets have been something of a rarity for Liverpool at points during the 2025–26 campaign, making the defensive shutout particularly satisfying for Van Dijk. However, it was what he achieved in the opposition half that ultimately stole the spotlight.
Against a Qarabag side unable to cope with Liverpool’s tempo, the Reds attacked freely, allowing players from every position to contribute going forward. That freedom paved the way for Van Dijk to achieve something no centre-back had managed before in Champions League history.
It’s a historic night for Liverpool’s captain
Van Dijk became the first central defender ever to register three assists in a single Champions League match. The landmark achievement highlighted his vision, technical quality and calmness in possession — qualities that have defined his Liverpool career but are rarely reflected so clearly on the scoresheet.
His first contribution came early in the match when he rose highest inside the box to guide a precise header into the path of Alexis Mac Allister. The Argentine midfielder made no mistake from close range, opening the scoring inside the first quarter of an hour.
The second assist demonstrated Van Dijk’s passing range. Spotting Hugo Ekitike’s forward run, the defender launched a perfectly weighted long ball from deep inside his own half. Ekitike collected the pass in stride and finished clinically in the 57th minute, further extending Liverpool’s advantage.
Van Dijk completed his historic hat-trick of assists late in the game. With Qarabag already overwhelmed, he stepped forward again to supply Federico Chiesa, who applied the final touch to cap off a resounding Anfield victory in the closing moments.
Van Dijk’s growing Champions League influence
The three assists took Van Dijk’s Champions League tally this season to five direct goal contributions — a notable figure for a centre-back. Only Dominik Szoboszlai has recorded more for Liverpool in the competition so far, underlining just how involved the captain has been in Slot’s European campaign.
While Van Dijk has occasionally faced scrutiny regarding his form this season, performances like this serve as a powerful reminder of his value. His ability to dictate games from the back, both defensively and creatively, remains central to Liverpool’s approach.
Beyond the statistics, his leadership was evident throughout the night, organising the defence, encouraging younger teammates and setting the tone with calm authority whenever Qarabag attempted to build momentum.
Liverpool secure safe passage to the last 16
The convincing win ensured Liverpool finished third in the Champions League league phase, comfortably securing qualification for the last 16. The Reds avoided the knockout play-offs and can now take advantage of a valuable rest period while several European rivals battle for survival.
Slot expressed satisfaction with his side’s progression, highlighting the importance of finishing inside the top eight.
“This is exactly what you want when you begin the Champions League,” Slot said. “Ending the league phase in the top eight makes a big difference. You skip a round, and that can save you from facing very difficult opponents.”
He also reflected on Liverpool’s recent European journey, noting how far the club has come in a short space of time.
“Only two years ago, we were in the Europa League and went out in the quarter-finals. Now, for two seasons in a row, we are in the Champions League last 16. That shows progress, but we want more.”
Transfer window questions remain
Attention will now turn to the January transfer window, which remains open until February 2. Injuries have tested Liverpool’s squad depth, with Jeremie Frimpong the latest player to be sidelined, prompting questions over whether reinforcements could arrive.
Slot reiterated the club’s long-term approach when discussing potential additions.
“We always try to make smart decisions,” he explained. “Not just for now, but for the future. That’s why we sign young players who still have room to develop. It depends on availability, affordability and whether it makes sense long-term.”
Liverpool, currently sitting sixth in the Premier League table, returns to domestic action on Saturday with a home fixture against Newcastle, buoyed by a European night that showcased both their quality and their captain’s enduring brilliance.