Virgil van Dijk officially breaks Netherlands national record

Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from DaveOCKOP or go back to LFC Live.

Virgil van Dijk has officially broken the Netherlands national team record for most appearances as captain. On his 88th international match, Van Dijk led the Dutch side against Lithuania, marking his 72nd appearance as skipper. This achievement surpasses the previous record held by Frank de Boer, who captained the Netherlands 71 times.

Van Dijk’s leadership and consistent presence in the national team have been significant since he assumed the captaincy in March 2018, appointed by then-manager Ronald Koeman. Under Van Dijk’s captaincy, the Netherlands reached the 2019 UEFA Nations League final and made the semi-finals of UEFA Euro 2024, showcasing his impact on the team’s international success.

This milestone is especially remarkable because Van Dijk is not from the traditional Dutch "Big Three" clubs — Ajax Amsterdam, PSV Eindhoven, or Feyenoord Rotterdam — yet he represents the Netherlands internationally more than any other player outside these clubs. His record-setting captaincy underscores his importance and longevity for the national team.

Van Dijk’s achievement has been celebrated as a testament to his leadership qualities, defensive skills, and influence on the field. It highlights his role as a key figure in Dutch football history and someone who continues to shape the national team’s future trajectory.