Virgil van Dijk sets a new record with his national team! | OneFootball

The Reds' defender enters the realm of legends with his national team.

Virgil van Dijk

A new chapter in Dutch football history was written during what was otherwise a straightforward qualification match. In their final Group Stage fixture, the Netherlands sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup by topping their group with 20 points, but the night also belonged to their captain, Virgil van Dijk.

The Liverpool centre-back, 34, has now set a new national record for captaincy appearances. By leading the team onto the pitch against Lithuania, he earned his 72nd cap as skipper, officially surpassing the previous record of 71 matches held by legendary defender Frank de Boer.

Van Dijk's influence extends far beyond this milestone. Since his international debut in 2015, he has been a cornerstone of the Dutch defence, amassing 88 caps and contributing 11 goals over his 11-year tenure with the Oranje. This latest achievement solidifies his status as a defining figure for his country, demonstrating leadership that resonates both in the dressing room and through his performances on the field.