Real Reason Why Virgil van Dijk sent off to leave Netherlands boss fuming over ‘broken agreement’

Virgil van Dijk of Holland argues with Referee Lukas Fahndrich (Image: Roy Lazet)

Virgil van Dijk was sent off in a match between Hungary and the Netherlands that ended in a goalless draw. Liverpool players Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch, and Cody Gakpo were also involved.

Despite being down to 10 men, the Netherlands managed to salvage a draw against Hungary despite Virgil van Dijk getting sent off.

After receiving two yellow cards in three minutes, Liverpool’s captain was sent off, with Ronald Koeman’s team behind by a goal already. The Dutchman received a red card for the first time while playing for his country.

Despite Netherlands having the majority of the possession, Roland Sallai opened the score just after the half-hour mark to guarantee the home team would go into the interval ahead. However, the visitors were unable to overcome Hungary, and Van Dijk gave in to his anger and received his first caution after arguing his case to the referee.

Three minutes later, the Reds star was given another yellow card and told to get off the field for a foul. Van Dijk’s fellow Liverpool player and captain of Hungary, Dominik Szboszlai, stood by the sidelines drinking and looking on with amused sideways.

Denzel Dumfries heads in a late equalizer off Cody Gakpo’s cross to secure second place in League A Group 3 and a Nations League point. Germany, who are now atop the standings, will host the Netherlands next, although Van Dijk will be missing due to suspension.

But after the game, Koeman stood by his skipper and expressed his displeasure with the decision to give Van Dijk his first yellow card. After Donyell Malen was brought down, the former Southampton and Celtic defender vented his annoyance to referee Lukas Fähndric.

According to Van Dijk, Hungary ought to have received a red card in that particular situation. According to Koeman, his captain ought to have had the opportunity to speak with the official.

Koeman told NOS, “That was a frustrating moment.” “Even I don’t understand it. We have, I believe, decided that a captain may object to the referee. A red card was appropriate for that infraction. Playing the ball was not at all the intention.

It is inconvenient that Virgil then takes that second card. He only needed to keep up, but he is aware of that.