Virgil van Dijk 2022 FIFA World Cup Preview
Virgil van Dijk is a crowd-pleasing name for Liverpool fans. He plays as center-back for the Premier League club and serves his international soccer duties with his home country, the Netherlands. He is considered one of the best defenders in the world due to his unparalleled strength, leadership, and aerial capabilities. Many anticipate his World Cup debut as captain. With that, Nitrobetting shares this 2022 FIFA World Cup Player Spotlight: Virgil van Dijk.
2022 FIFA World Cup Player Spotlight: Virgil van Dijk
— Virgil van Dijk (@VirgilvDijk) August 4, 2022
A complete defender
Van Dijk is well-known for his strength. He usually takes care of the left-hand side of the central defense, but can also play to the right if needed. With his sturdy frame comes pace, consistent technique, and an eye for goal. It’s rare to see defensive players deliver balls as well as him. The Dutchman is an effective set-piece taker for both his club and the international team.
If you were to create an ideal central defender, Virgil van Dijk has all the desired ingredients. He has overflowing confidence and prowess. More than that, the 31-year-old’s strong leadership qualities make him the ideal captain for the Netherlands.
First major international representation
In May 2021, van Dijk was ruled out of the postponed UEFA Euro 2020 to recover after a long-term injury he picked up in 2020. Before that, he played several qualifier games after being awarded the captaincy of his team. The defender did well against 2014 World Cup champions Germany in the UEFA Nations League. Furthermore, he scored the equalizer in the next clash with Germany, allowing the Netherlands to win the group phase of the tournament. He later led his country to the final which they lost 1-0 against Portugal.
In 47 international games, including friendlies, Virgil van Dijk found the back of the net five times and played important roles in each game. November will see him in his first major competition as -200 favorites to win Group A and +500 favorites to reach the final.
Playing for more than just the trophy
Other than his goal of winning the trophy for his country in this 2022 FIFA World Cup Player Spotlight: Virgil van Dijk, he hopes to make this year’s World Cup an unforgettable experience for head coach Louis van Gall. The 71-year-old announced several months ago his battle with aggressive prostate cancer. Van Gaal stated in the same interview that he often left the national team at night for his treatment without the players finding out until recently. The Netherlands captain was left in shock and then responded with an emotional message that said:
“I told him that we are definitely going to be there for him as a group whenever he needs it, and hopefully we can also make it a World Cup for him to never forget.”
Where to Bet on the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Bitcoin
Adding to the thrill of league soccer, Nitrobetting keeps the action going with the latest 2022 FIFA World Cup odds. We house early futures odds for the winner, with more game odds as the tournament draws closer.
This is just one of the many sports betting guidesp that you can read here at Nitrobetting news. Stay tuned for more 2022 FIFA World Cup previews and articles and don’t forget to check out the latest soccer betting odds on the sportsbook.
*All odds stated are subject to change without prior notice.
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