Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has demanded improvements from his team following their 1-0 loss to Galatasaray in the Champions League, which also saw goalkeeper Alisson forced off with an injury.
The defeat marked Liverpool’s second straight setback after their Premier League unbeaten run ended against Crystal Palace last weekend. Van Dijk acknowledged the team’s effort was better than at Selhurst Park but stressed that costly mistakes and missed chances must be eliminated.
“We have to convert chances, avoid giving away penalties and cut out silly mistakes. It’s easy to say, but harder to do. It’s a process, and we have to keep working and moving forward,” Van Dijk said.
Victor Osimhen’s early penalty proved decisive in a game played in an intense atmosphere, with fireworks going off outside Liverpool’s hotel the night before.
Manager Arne Slot admitted the result was disappointing but felt the display was much improved compared to the weekend, noting the team created several promising situations in the first half.
Liverpool’s injury concerns deepened with Alisson and Hugo Ekitike sidelined, while Mohamed Salah struggled to make an impact after coming off the bench. With Alexander Isak still regaining fitness and several new signings yet to settle, Slot faces challenges ahead of tough fixtures, including a trip to Chelsea.
