Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk marked a significant milestone on Sunday by earning his 100th cap for the Netherlands in a 2-1 victory over Serbia. The match, held in Holland, was an emotional occasion for the defender, who entered the field accompanied by his young son as a mascot.

Van Dijk’s achievement was officially recognized before kickoff, when the Dutch Football Association presented him with a golden bowl and a commemorative shirt to honor his century of appearances for the national team. The Liverpool center-back played a key leadership role throughout the match, as the Dutch side secured goals from Teun Koopmeiners and Joshua Zirkzee, overcoming a strike from Serbia’s Mihajlo Cvetkovic.

Having celebrated his 35th birthday in July and currently within the final year of his contract at Liverpool, Van Dijk emphasized that he has no immediate plans to reduce his level of commitment. Reflecting on his career, he credited his teammates, coaching staff, and family for their support in helping him reach this milestone. “It’s definitely something I’m very proud of,” Van Dijk said, highlighting the significance of the occasion, especially with his family present.

Van Dijk also acknowledged the impact of an injury in 2020, which sidelined him for a year and affected his overall cap tally. While he recognized that surpassing fellow Dutch international Wesley Sneijder’s 134 appearances was now unlikely, he expressed satisfaction with his current accomplishments and a desire to continue competing at the highest level. “I’m not someone who looks too far ahead,” he remarked, noting the importance of maintaining fitness and focus to contribute consistently to his team.

Since his appointment as Liverpool captain in 2023, Van Dijk said he remains motivated by the enjoyment of playing football and the responsibility of leading both on and off the field. “Playing football is the most fun there is,” he stated. He added that he aims to perform at his best regardless of age perceptions within the sport and emphasized the importance of winning, particularly on such a landmark personal occasion.

Barcelona’s Xavi, who took over as head coach of the Netherlands after the recent World Cup, praised Van Dijk’s leadership and professionalism. “I have just let it be known in the dressing room that I am extremely proud of Virgil,” Xavi said. “He is an example. He has done very well, for himself and for the team. He is a real leader. I am proud to be his coach.”

Van Dijk concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the national team’s future, expressing optimism about what lies ahead and his role in continuing to strengthen the squad.