Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk revealed he temporarily lost feeling in his upper leg after a heavy collision during the Dutch team’s 5-1 World Cup victory over Sweden.

Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk has eased fears over his fitness after suffering an injury scare during his side’s emphatic 5-1 victory against Sweden at the 2026 World Cup.

The Liverpool defender played a key role as the Oranje produced one of the standout performances of the tournament so far, but there was concern after he appeared to be struggling following a heavy challenge during the match.

Van Dijk later revealed that the collision left him with a frightening sensation, as he temporarily lost feeling in part of his leg after taking a significant blow to the hip area.

Speaking after the game, the 34-year-old admitted that the incident initially caused alarm because of the unusual symptoms he experienced on the pitch.

“I took a hard hit to my hip, and I couldn’t feel my upper leg anymore, so that was a little bit crazy,” Van Dijk said

Fortunately for both the player and the Netherlands coaching staff, the problem appears to be less serious than initially feared. Van Dijk suggested that the issue was likely caused by a pinched nerve rather than any structural injury.

The experienced centre-back was able to continue playing and completed the match as Ronald Koeman’s side secured a commanding victory that sent them to the top of Group F.

While Van Dijk remains optimistic about his condition, the Netherlands medical staff will continue to monitor him ahead of their final group-stage fixture against Tunisia at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.