Liverpool endured a disastrous start to their Champions League tie against PSV Eindhoven as Virgil van Dijk conceded a penalty just four minutes into the match at Anfield. The incident occurred when the Liverpool captain handled the ball inside the box, leaving both players and supporters in disbelief.
Head coach Arne Slot appeared stunned on the touchline, visibly at a loss for words as the referee pointed to the spot. PSV’s Ivan Perisic stepped forward and converted the penalty with composure, putting the visitors ahead before the game had even settled.
Supporters quickly took to social media to express their frustration and shock, with reactions ranging from disappointment to sarcasm:
“Virgil is finished,” wrote one fan.
Another commented, “VVD masterclass,” in frustration.
A third added, “What is this? I haven’t even started watching the game.”
The moment has sparked intense debate among Liverpool followers, many of whom questioned Van Dijk’s decision-making and the team’s early concentration levels.
In the comments section, supporters continued to voice their concerns. One fan reflected on the severity of the moment, stating that if the captain is effectively gifting goals to the opposition at home, the team faces a worrying situation. Another questioned why Van Dijk protested the decision, calling it one of the clearest handball incidents they had seen.
The early setback added pressure to an already crucial Champions League fixture, leaving Liverpool with a long evening ahead as they attempted to recover from the opening blow
