Virgil van Dijk Shows Off Brutal Battle Scar From Anthony Gordon's Shocking Red Card Tackle

Liverpool skipper Virgil van Dijk found himself the victim of a reckless challenge from Anthony Gordon that led to a straight red card for the Newcastle United winger.

Arne Slot's team were playing out from defense near the conclusion of the opening period. Van Dijk had possession and was assessing his passing options when Gordon launched into a dangerous tackle. The England forward went in with excessive force, making contact with Van Dijk's right shin using his boot studs as his body weight brought the Dutch defender crashing down.

Van Dijk instantly clutched his shin area as he collapsed in agony. Though referee Simon Hooper initially deemed the challenge worthy of only a yellow card, he reversed his decision after a brief VAR review, showing Gordon a straight red card.

The Dutch center-back was observed speaking with teammates on the field, gesturing toward his injured leg as if demonstrating why Gordon deserved dismissal. Television cameras managed to capture close-up footage of Van Dijk's leg, clearly showing two stud marks running along his shin.

Even before Liverpool and Newcastle's kickoff at St. James' Park, anticipation was high for an intense, physical encounter. The Reds established a 2-0 advantage through strikes from Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitiké. Nevertheless, the reduced Newcastle side pulled one back via Bruno Guimarães' effort in the second period.

Van Dijk remained on the pitch as Liverpool supporters breathed easier, considering how crucial the team captain is to their Premier League title defense this campaign.