‘Emotional’ Virgil Van Dijk breaks silence on referee’s controversial penalty decision in England’s favor

Netherlands' captain Virgil van Dijk and his teammates were infuriated with referee Felix Zwayer, accusing him of favoring the English side.

‘Emotional’ Virgil Van Dijk breaks silence on referee’s controversial penalty decision in England’s favor

Virgil Van Dijk slammed referee Felix Zwayer for his controversial penalty decision. (via IMAGO)

Netherlands skipper Virgil Van Dijk spoke out after the Euros semi-final match, criticizing referee Felix Zwayer for the controversial penalty decision that helped England reach the final.

The Three Lions made it through the final of the 2024 Euros, owing to a 2-1 win over the Dutch, and will face Spain on Sunday. The match was marred by controversy. The Netherlands took an early lead with Xavi Simons‘ impressive long-range strike, but England equalized in the 18th minute. Denzel Dumfries fouled Harry Kane inside the penalty box, and the referee contentiously awarded a penalty after a VAR check.

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The Dutch players, including skipper Virgil Van Dijk, and the coaching staff were left furious after the decision. Following the Netherlands’ defeat, the Liverpool star expressed his frustration with the referee. He implied that Zwayer’s behavior after the final whistle spoke volumes. Moreover, Van Dijk noted the referee’s quick exit from the field without shaking hands, but did not solely blame the loss on the match’s officiating.

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I don't know what to say, I don't know if I should say something about this. But I think it says it all that the referee went in quite quickly after the game, had no time to shake his hand.
Virgil Van Dijk on referee’s decision (via The Mirror)

Additionally, Van Dijk was also angry at the referee, for a second-half booking that he received for dissent after not being granted a corner. Football pundits urged UEFA to penalize the referee for his questionable decision-making.

Virgil Van Dijk to consider club and international future soon, following Netherlands’ Euros exit

Liverpool and Netherlands skipper Virgil Van Dijk led his national side to the semi-finals but fell short at the hands of England, ending a rather successful Euro 2024 campaign. This has prompted the 33-year-old to contemplate his future this summer.

Virgil Van Dijk Netherlands future
Virgil Van Dijk remained uncertain about his Netherlands future. (via IMAGO)

The Reds star has spoken about his fatigue and his emotional state, mentioning it in interviews and on his social media. Addressing his international future and possible retirement, Van Dijk expressed uncertainty and indicated he plans to take the summer to consider his desires while recovering from the semi-final loss.

I haven't the slightest idea right now. I will think carefully this summer about what I want at club level and as an international player. But first we need to recover from this.
Virgil Van Dijk on his future (via Bein Sports)

The defender emphasized his need for a much-needed break to recharge. Reportedly, Saudi Pro League clubs are interested in signing him following Arne Slot‘s arrival at the club.

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