“We Had the Opportunity”: Virgil van Dijk Reflects on Nations League Exit with Disappointment

Virgil van Dijk, the captain of the Netherlands, expressed his disappointment following his team’s exit at the hands of Spain in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals.

In a thrilling encounter in Valencia that ended 3-3 after extra time, European champions Spain triumphed 5-4 on penalties. The Dutch managed to convert two penalties—one during normal time and another in extra time—but fell short of overcoming ‘La Roja’, with PSV’s Noa Lang and Aston Villa’s Donyell Malen both failing to convert their penalty attempts in the shootout.

“Losing is just painful,” Van Dijk shared with Dutch television after the defeat. “It was an intense match full of footballing spirit, but we’ve been knocked out. That’s a bitter pill to swallow. We had the chance, but unfortunately, Spain moves on.”

Earlier in the tournament, the Netherlands faced Spain in Rotterdam, where they drew 2-2 thanks to an equaliser from Mikel Merino deep into injury time. “We showed a solid performance in Rotterdam. We aimed to replicate that tonight, and we did manage that at times.”

Looking ahead, the Netherlands will face Poland, Finland, Lithuania, and Malta in the World Cup qualifiers. Their qualifying campaign will commence with an away match against Finland on June 7.

“It’s crucial to carry that momentum into the World Cup qualifiers. The challenge in football is maintaining a consistent level of performance,” Van Dijk added.

“We are determined to do everything possible to secure our spot in the World Cup.”

Penalty Shootout

Taking the reins early in the penalty shootout, Van Dijk stepped up and fired in the Netherlands’ opening penalty with confidence, sending it past Unai Simon.

“I would absolutely take the first penalty again without hesitation,” Van Dijk asserted.