‘It was always the plan’ – Virgil van Dijk explains Nunez penalty against LASK

Virgil van Dijk has heaped praise on Darwin Nunez for his standout performance in Liverpool’s recent Europa League match against LASK.

Nunez played a pivotal role in the match as Liverpool found themselves trailing 1-0, but Nunez’s contribution turned the tide in their favor, ultimately leading to a 3-1 victory.

Nunez’s crucial moment came in the form of a penalty kick in the second half. Just before Nunez stepped up to take the penalty, Virgil van Dijk briefly held the ball and appeared as though he might take the spot-kick himself. This momentary delay allowed Nunez to maintain his composure and focus on the task at hand.

Van Dijk also emphasized the significance of the mental aspect of these high-pressure moments in matches, highlighting the importance of maintaining one’s composure and mental fortitude when facing critical situations.

He said: “You have to make sure you protect at least the penalty spot. It’s a bit of a mind game there – maybe they were going to try and get in your head.

“It was always the plan that Darwin was going to take it, and I’m glad he scored.”

Van Dijk additionally added that Nunez is beginning to show the world what’s really going on with him:

“Darwin was very important for us against LASK and long may it continue. Up front, the competition is quite good.”

“They all have to push each other and it’s good to see. Everyone has a role to play whether you start or not. Everyone has now seen the potential and the quality he has.”