Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has become the subject of widespread football banter following an uncomfortable defensive moment against PSG.
The incident occurred in the 11th minute of the Champions League quarter-final first leg, when Desire Doue scored the opening goal with a curling shot that took a deflection on its way into the net.
Van Dijk drew criticism for failing to close down the attacker quickly and for turning his body sideways — appearing to shy away from the strike — as the ball passed him.
The situation sparked a wave of harsh reactions online, with fans mocking the defender using nicknames like “Virgil Van Disney” and joking that he switched from confident defending to avoidance in seconds. Some comments even labeled the moment embarrassing, suggesting he seemed to duck away from the attempt.
The clip quickly turned into a viral meme during the match, intensifying the frustration surrounding what was already a tough opening period for Arne Slot’s team in Paris.
