Liverpool captain's absence highlighted by Van der Vaart amid loss

Former Netherlands player Rafael van der Vaart highlighted the importance of Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk amid the Germany loss. Van Dijk served a suspension after receiving a red card against Hungary as Germany beat the Netherlands 1-0 with comfort.

The Dutch side only managed to create a total of three shots compared to Germany’s 13 shots throughout the game. Germany are leading the UEFA Nations Cup League A Group Three with 10 points, five points ahead of the Dutch.

Netherlands and Hungary are equal on point-tally with five, but the Dutch are second due to a better goal difference. During the November international break, the Dutch will face Hungary and Bosnia & Herzegovina in the remaining Nations Cup fixture.

The possession map of Germany against the Netherlands showing their preference to control the game through the left side of the midfield and the attacking third. (Credit: SofaScore) — The possession map of Germany against the Netherlands shows their preference to control the game through the left side of the midfield and the attacking third. (Credit: SofaScore)

The Dutch team struggled with balance and cohesion in and out of possession, feeling the absence of captain Van Dijk. During the game, Stefan de Vrij captained the side, playing as a centre-back alongside Micky van de Ven against Germany.

The duo failed to impose their authority as Germany dominated the middle and right-attacking third despite enjoying a lesser possession. Ronald Koeman’s side lacked the decision-making and dominating aspect in the defence due to the absence of the 33-year-old captain.

Speaking to the Dutch broadcast NOS (via Voetbalzone) during halftime, Van der Vaart highlighted the glaring absence of Van Dijk. He said:

“Of course you miss a player like that (Van Dijk). Van de Ven is nice and friendly, but he is not Van Dijk. But it is also about making the right decision at the right time.”

🚨🗣️ – Van der Vaart: "Micky van de Ven.. it's all well and good but he ain't no Virgil van Dijk, of course we miss him." pic.twitter.com/vqxIEIyOBb
— TheEuropeanLad (@TheEuropeanLad) October 14, 2024

Van Dijk provides more than defensive stability for his club and country, playing a key role in build-up and game control. The Netherlands failed to win key battles and Germany constantly used the left side that Van Dijk marshals when he is available.

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However, the situation helped Liverpool as their captain earned a very important resting period due to his suspension. The Reds will face Chelsea at Anfield after the October international break ends, followed by big games against RB Leipzig and Arsenal.