Liverpool does not intend to leave Paris Saint-Germain to dictate its law in Anfield. While the Reds are preparing to receive the capital's club in the round of 16 return from the Champions League, Virgil Van Dijk wanted to send a clear message. The Captain of Reds wants to transform Anfield into a hell for Parisians and remind the world of why this stadium is one of the most feared in Europe.
Anfield, a trap for PSG?
After a resounding victory against Manchester City at Etihad, Liverpool is more than ever confident. With seven of their last eleven home games, Arne Slot's men intend to make their stadium a breathtaking fortress.
“We have to make Anfield horrible for our opponents”, said Van Dijk. A sentence heavy with meaning which resonates as a warning for PSG, which will come to play its qualification on the mythical lawn of the Reds.
The Parisians, unbeaten outside in Ligue 1 for 34 games, know that they will have to raise their level against an opponent who has never really succeeded on the European scene. Indeed, during their last trip to Anfield in 2018, Paris had sunk (3-2). Before that, in 1997, in the cut of cuts, Liverpool had also established itself against the Red and Blue.
Paris on his guard
If PSG has proven this season that he knew how to travel in the championship, the Champions League is a completely different story. The men of Luis Enrique conceded two defeats outside in this competition this season, against Bayern Munich and Arsenal. A sign that the challenge that awaits them in Anfield will be very different.
Van Dijk and Liverpool clearly displayed their intentions: PSG will not be welcomed in conquered terrain. It remains to be seen whether Ousmane Dembélé and his teammates will face the pressure of Anfield and finally break the curse which pursues them in English. One thing is certain: an informed team is worth two …
