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Virgil van Dijk has come under heavy criticism following the Netherlands’ 3-2 loss to Austria in their final group game at Euro 2024.

The Dutch captain and Liverpool defender faced scrutiny for his performance, particularly his role in defensive lapses that led to Austria’s goals.

The defeat saw the Netherlands place third in a Group C that included Poland and France, prompting a wave of disappointment and backlash from fans and pundits alike.

While the Netherlands were not knocked out of the competition but qualified as one of the best ranked third-place teams.

The criticism wasn’t limited to his on-field performance.

Analysts highlighted Van Dijk’s leadership, questioning his ability to organize the defense effectively during crucial moments of the match and whether he was an effective captain for the Oranje.

While the Dutch media is known for their harsh criticism of their own players, it seemed to reach a boiling point after the loss to the Austrians.

Euro ’88 legend and three-time Ballon D’or winner Marco van Basten issued a scathing report of van Dijk’s performance, saying after the game:

“Virgil van Dijk has to show more leadership.

He is our captain, he is the man responsible and he is the big leader of our team.”

“I critized him before, unfortunately it lead to zero improvement.

It’s disappointing that I have to keep repeating myself.”

He was not the only one to voice his concerns on the matter, with many Dutch outlets singing a similar tune.

Now the 32-year-old has responded to some of the criticism aimed his way.

What did Virgil van Dijk say?

Speaking to ESPN Netherlands, the Dutchman responded in the best possible way by admitting he had a poor performance

“[Some incidents] are snapshots in the match, so I find that difficult [to contend with],” Van Dijk began.

“The criticism, especially after the last match, I can completely understand and I’m working on it, of course.”

“I blame myself and I’m not crazy – it can be better and should be better.

That’s what I’m working on and I think [recognising that] is the basis for improving.”

“Last match [against Austria] I certainly didn’t play my best and that doesn’t happen very often this season, luckily.”

“The responsibility that I have and take and want to take is very high, especially with [the national team] and with Liverpool, of course, it’s the same.”

“That affects me and we have discussed that in recent days.

shouldn’t come as a huge surprise at this point, since the Dutch media is known for being quite critical of its players.

However, there is still hope for Virgil van Dijk and the other two Liverpool players since the Netherlands is still in the Euro 2024.

The Dutch will take on Romania in the round of 16 next week Tuesday.

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