An already dramatic first half at Anfield took another turn when Virgil van Dijk’s accidental elbow struck teammate Alexis Mac Allister, leaving the Argentine midfielder on the ground in visible discomfort.
The collision occurred during a defensive scramble following Manchester United’s early goal. As Van Dijk rose to challenge for an aerial ball, his elbow caught Mac Allister on the head, immediately prompting concern from players on both sides. Referee Michael Oliver was quick to stop the game to allow medical staff to assess the situation, adhering to protocol for potential head injuries.
The incident momentarily silenced Anfield, with Liverpool supporters watching anxiously as the team’s midfield engine received treatment. Fortunately, Mac Allister appeared conscious but dazed, and the medical team took every precaution before allowing him to continue.
It was an unfortunate moment of miscommunication between two key Liverpool players, adding to what has already been a chaotic opening period. With Van Dijk involved in the earlier defensive mix-up that led to Bryan Mbeumo’s goal, the captain will be eager to steady the ship and help his side regain composure.
The stoppage briefly slowed the game’s pace, but the concern remains for Mac Allister’s wellbeing. In a fixture already defined by intensity and emotion, this unexpected collision has added yet another layer of tension to an already dramatic encounter.
