Virgil van Dijk believes Liverpool reaching the final of the FA Cup represents a 'big step' for Jurgen Klopp's side as they go in search of the one trophy the team have been unable to claim during the German's Anfield tenure.
The Reds were good value for their three-goal lead at half-time against Pep Guardiola's side, though got off to the worst possible start to the second half after conceding inside 70 seconds of the restart. Bernardo Silva added a second for City late on in the match, though they were unable to find a third goal to draw level.
Liverpool's hopes of the quadruple now very much remain alive, with the FA Cup one of the trophies still for up for grabs as the season edges closer to completion. Reviewing the performance which booked the Reds' place in their second Wembley final of the campaign, Van Dijk told the BBC: "We made it very difficult for ourselves in the end. When they scored their first goal quite early in the second half it gives them a boost but, overall, we are happy to go to the final.
READ MORE: Man City release statement apologising to Liverpool after supporters disrupt Hillsborough silence
PLAYER RATINGS: Sadio Mane and four others outstanding in win over Man City
HAVE YOUR SAY: Cast your player ratings after 3-2 win over Man City
"It is about scoring goals and that is what we did in the first half. A perfect first half in that case but we play City, the champions of England at the moment, and it is always going to be tough. There are moments you will have to suffer.
"You have to show a lot of strength and togetherness. It was intense, like the previous game against each other, but we should have killed the game off. We go to the final now, we haven't won anything at the moment but it is a big step for us as a group. It is the only trophy we didn't win so we will give it a go."
Van Dijk also had plenty of praise for his centre-back partner, Ibrahima Konate, following another assured display from the Frenchman. Selected to start ahead of Joel Matip, the 22-year-old scored his third goal is as many matches to put the Reds ahead in the contest.
"He has made a great impact, he works hard every day and has a great mentality," said the Dutchman on the performance of the former RB Leipzig defender. "He is still so young but it is incredible how good he already is. Everyone should appreciate what we have. The future is bright."
