Virgil van Dijk has once again etched his name into Liverpool’s history books. The Dutch defender scored the decisive header in Liverpool’s 1-0 victory over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Thursday, February 12, 2026, early WIB. This goal marked a milestone for the Reds captain, officially making him the highest-scoring defender for Liverpool in the Premier League era with a total of 23 goals. By achieving this, Van Dijk has surpassed the long-standing record previously held by club legend Sami Hyypia.
Van Dijk’s latest goal was more than just a match-winner. It symbolized the remarkable consistency and influence the central defender has had since joining Liverpool. In the physically demanding and tactically intense Premier League, offensive contributions from a central defender are rare and highly valued. Van Dijk has consistently proven that he is not only a defensive anchor but also a lethal weapon in set-piece situations.
Master of Aerial Duels and Set-Pieces
Known for his leadership at the back and dominance in aerial duels, Van Dijk has also developed an impressive goal-scoring record. His powerful headers and impeccable positioning have made him a constant threat in the opposition’s penalty area. Whether from corners or free-kicks, Van Dijk’s presence during attacking set-pieces forces defenders to remain on high alert. His ability to read the game and time his jumps perfectly sets him apart from many defenders in the Premier League, turning him into a nightmare for opposing defenses.
The Dutchman’s knack for finding the back of the net showcases a complete defender who can influence the game at both ends of the pitch. Scoring 23 goals in England’s top flight is no small feat for a centre-back, highlighting Van Dijk’s unique blend of defensive solidity and offensive prowess.
Surpassing a Liverpool Legend
Sami Hyypia is a true Liverpool icon from the early Premier League era. The Finnish defender was known for his resilience, leadership, and calm presence at the back. Signed from Dutch side Willem II in 1999 for just £2.6 million, Hyypia was relatively unknown when he arrived at Anfield. Yet, he quickly proved his worth and became one of the Premier League’s finest defenders.
During his time at Liverpool, Hyypia also captained the team and left a lasting mark on the club before retiring from Anfield in 2009. Surpassing Hyypia’s goal-scoring record is no small achievement and firmly places Van Dijk among Liverpool’s all-time greats. The milestone reflects not only Van Dijk’s consistency but also his importance in the modern era of Liverpool football.
A Strong First Impression at Liverpool
Van Dijk made an immediate impact upon joining Liverpool, solidifying the defense and bringing calmness and authority to the backline. Former Liverpool goalkeeper Sander Westerveld has even drawn comparisons between Van Dijk and Hyypia, noting the similarities in their approach to the game.
“Sami and Virgil are very alike,” Westerveld told Liverpoolfc.com. “Look at how Sami made an immediate difference when he first arrived. He played in the Netherlands and learned to play with the ball at his feet, which Virgil can also do.”
Westerveld emphasized that both defenders share exceptional ball-handling skills, tactical intelligence, and leadership qualities. These traits have allowed Van Dijk to integrate seamlessly into Liverpool’s system and maintain high standards both defensively and offensively.
Beyond Goals: Leadership and Influence
Van Dijk’s contributions extend far beyond his goal tally. His leadership on and off the pitch has transformed Liverpool’s defensive structure, making the Reds one of the most difficult teams to break down in the Premier League. His calm presence allows teammates to perform with confidence, knowing that the defense is anchored by one of the league’s most reliable centre-backs.
Moreover, Van Dijk’s ability to score crucial goals in tight matches highlights his versatility and clutch performance under pressure. These qualities not only enhance Liverpool’s chances in domestic competitions but also reinforce the team’s competitiveness in European tournaments.
Legacy in the Making
As Van Dijk continues to set records, his name becomes increasingly synonymous with excellence at Liverpool. Surpassing Hyypia’s goal record cements his legacy as one of the club’s all-time great defenders. Fans and analysts alike recognize that Van Dijk is not just a defender who excels in stopping goals but also a player who can decisively influence matches through scoring.
With his leadership, aerial dominance, and tactical intelligence, Van Dijk remains a central figure in Liverpool’s ambitions. His achievements exemplify the evolution of the modern centre-back: a player equally adept at defending, organizing, and scoring.
Virgil van Dijk’s record-breaking goal serves as a reminder of his immense value to Liverpool. Beyond the statistics, it is his consistent performance, professionalism, and influence that define him as one of the greatest defenders in Premier League history.
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