Virgil Van Dijk issues verdict on Liverpool's defensive inconsistency

Van Dijk admits Liverpool's defensive record is unsustainable after conceding three goals for a third consecutive European match in their 3-2 loss to Fenerbahce.

Liverpool suffered a 3-2 defeat to Fenerbahce in Istanbul, conceding three goals for the third consecutive match in European competition—an unprecedented occurrence in the club's history. Captain Virgil van Dijk acknowledged the defensive vulnerabilities must be addressed immediately, describing the performance as "definitely not sustainable."

The Reds surrendered leads twice during the match and lost composure after Fenerbahce's opening goal, with set-piece defending proving particularly problematic. Van Dijk highlighted lapses on first and second balls from corners, an area where Liverpool had previously been strong this season. Across 15 fixtures in all competitions, the team have managed only four clean sheets, with just one in their last ten matches.

Despite the loss, Liverpool's Champions League qualification prospects remain intact with four group games remaining. The focus now shifts to Sunday's trip to Crystal Palace, with van Dijk emphasizing the need to improve and prevent further momentum loss following consecutive defeats for the first time under manager Andoni Iraola.