Virgil van Dijk downplays revenge ahead of Liverpool's clash with Real Madrid

Liverpool is set to face Real Madrid in the Champions League, creating significant anticipation among fans and players alike. The match is particularly notable as it rekindles a rivalry that has seen Real Madrid consistently prevail against Liverpool in recent years. Virgil van Dijk, a key figure in Liverpool's defense, expressed his views on the upcoming match. He emphasized that the team is not fueled by revenge despite Liverpool's disappointing record against Real Madrid, where they have not secured a win in their last eight encounters. Instead, Van Dijk focused on the importance of securing three points in the Champions League, a motivation that he believes is sufficient for his readiness. His remarks come in the context of Liverpool's formidable start to this season's Champions League, as they remain the only team with a perfect record after four games, unlike Real Madrid who have faced challenges, sitting lower in the standings with only two wins out of four. Despite being the defending champions, Real Madrid's recent performances raise questions as they head into this match. This clash not only holds implications for group standings but also presents an opportunity for Liverpool to assert themselves against a historically strong opponent, potentially altering their trajectory in the tournament. The players are gearing up for what Van Dijk described as a major game, indicating the intensity and focus within the Liverpool squad ahead of this encounter.