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Van Dijk’s costly slip reshapes Liverpool’s FA Cup duel with City

4 April 2026

Van Dijk’s costly slip reshapes Liverpool’s FA Cup duel with City
Van Dijk's costly foul threatens Liverpool's FA Cup campaign.

The Incident

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, the towering Dutch defender, suddenly finds his side in hot water as Manchester City push through the FA Cup quarterfinal. The moment arrived just as City looked to seize control, and the hosts sensed a shift in momentum. The fans leaned forward; the stadium held its breath, and so did Liverpool's ambitions.

Van Dijk's pricey foul on a City attacker inside the box in the 37th minute turned the mood sour, gifting City a penalty and a chance to pivot the tie.

Norwegian striker Erling Haaland calmly converted the spot-kick, sending the ball past the keeper to give City the lead.

What It Means Next for Liverpool

Liverpool had already drifted from the title race this season and were knocked out of the League Cup, leaving them to chase FA Cup glory and a potential European dream. The Reds will hope to rebound in the upcoming semifinals.

Punchlines: If mistakes paid wages, Van Dijk would be Liverpool's top earner. And Liverpool's defense finally woke up—at dawn.

Author

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened in the 37th minute that changed the game?

Van Dijk fouled a City attacker in the box, earning a penalty for City.

Who scored the key goal from the penalty?

Erling Haaland converted to put City ahead.

What is Liverpool's situation after this match?

They are chasing FA Cup glory and a route to the Champions League after exiting the League Cup and trailing in the league.