Liverpool Set to Face PSG in Champions League Round of 16

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk is gearing up for an exciting clash against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, as the Reds travel to the French capital for the first leg on Wednesday night. Liverpool, who finished top of their group with seven wins out of eight games, are facing PSG, who made a statement with a 10-0 aggregate victory over Brest in the knockout play-offs.

Both teams come into the encounter in impressive form. Liverpool are currently leading the Premier League, while PSG are at the top of Ligue 1, with both clubs holding a 13-point lead in their respective leagues. Van Dijk, speaking ahead of the match, emphasized the challenge awaiting his side, acknowledging PSG's strong performance against Brest.

“It will be a very good game, I expect over there, against a team in form," said Van Dijk. "I think they played very well in their last Champions League game against Brest. It will be difficult, but these are the games you want to compete in.”

The Dutch defender highlighted the importance of the knockout stage, stating, “There is no time for errors or bad games. We want to be so good that we deserve to go through.” Van Dijk also stressed the need to perform on the biggest stage, especially in such high-stakes matches, adding, "These are the nights that you want to perform in and show the whole world."

After the first leg in Paris, Liverpool will return home to Anfield for the second leg next Tuesday. Prior to that, the Reds are set to face Southampton in the Premier League, where they will aim to maintain their title charge. It’s shaping up to be a thrilling week for Liverpool as they prepare for a crucial Champions League encounter.