In a performance that redefined the role of a modern centre-back, Virgil van Dijk made history on Wednesday night, January 28, 2026. During Liverpool’s 6–0 demolition of Qarabağ FK at Anfield, the Reds' captain became the first central defender in Champions League history to record three assists in a single match.
While strikers usually grab the headlines in 6–0 routs, Van Dijk’s technical masterclass was the talk of Europe, helping Arne Slot’s side secure 3rd place in the league phase and direct entry to the Round of 16.
The Anatomy of a Record: Three Acts of Vision
Van Dijk didn't just stumble into these assists; each one showcased a different facet of his elite passing range:
The Aerial Dominance (15’): Van Dijk rose highest from a corner to nod the ball perfectly into the path of Alexis Mac Allister, who bundled it home for the opener.
The Quarterback Pass (57’): From deep inside his own half, Van Dijk unleashed a trademark 60-yard diagonal ball that dropped over the Qarabağ defense, allowing Hugo Ekitiké to race through and score.
The Box-to-Box Surge (90’): In the final minute, the captain charged forward into the final third, drawing defenders toward him before sliding a perfectly weighted pass to Federico Chiesa, who smashed home the sixth.
Liverpool 6–0 Qarabağ: Key Performance Stats
Metric,Virgil van Dijk
Assists,3 (UCL Record for a CB)
Pass Accuracy,88% (64/73)
Long Balls Completed,6
Duels Won,80% (4/5)
Player of the Match,Yes (Carlsberg POTM)
Arne Slot: "We know Virgil is the best defender in the world, but tonight he showed he is also one of our best playmakers. To see your captain leading the press and providing three assists from centre-back... it’s a unique achievement that tells you everything about his quality."
The Verdict: Coming off a difficult domestic weekend, Van Dijk responded in the best possible way. By adding elite-level playmaking to his defensive arsenal, the 34-year-old has proven he is still evolving under Arne Slot’s tactical system.