Mexx Meerdink Shines as Xavi Hernandez Earns First Win with Netherlands Over Serbia
Netherlands Triumph Over Serbia in Nations League
Mexx Meerdink scored twice, helping Xavi Hernandez claim his inaugural victory as the manager of the Netherlands in a 2-1 win against Serbia. Despite a quick equalizer by Luka Jovic after halftime, the Dutch team controlled the match with 67% possession and dominated territory throughout.
The game took place at Stadion Rajko Mitic, where the Oranje showed strong creativity and resilience to grab three points. Meerdink calmly converted a penalty in the first half and later secured the decisive goal, highlighting his composure beyond his years.
Serbia fought back fiercely, with Jovic scoring just a minute after the break to level the score. Still, the tactical edge from the Dutch midfield, led by the industrious Joey Veerman, eventually wore down the hosts. This win puts the Netherlands atop Group 2, showcasing their blend of flair and toughness on the road.
Goalkeeper & Defense
- Bart Verbruggen - 6/10: The Brighton goalkeeper had a quiet night due to Dutch dominance but couldn’t stop Jovic’s sharp finish after halftime. He made five saves, giving stability when Serbia threatened counterattacks.
- Virgil van Dijk - 7/10: The captain was calm and commanding, organizing the defense well against Serbia’s physical play. He helped complete 634 passes for the visitors and kept the backline steady despite playing a high defensive line.
- Jan Paul van Hecke - 6/10: Delivered a solid performance, contributing to limiting Serbia to only six shots on target amid a hostile atmosphere.
- Micky van de Ven - 7/10: His quick recovery runs were crucial in handling Serbia’s long balls. His coverage allowed full-backs to push forward and helped in the team’s 51 clearances to repel pressure.
- Denzel Dumfries - 6/10: Put in a typical energetic display on the right flank, constantly pressuring the Serbian wing-backs until substituted in the 80th minute.
Midfield
- Joey Veerman - 8/10: The midfield engine. Veerman controlled the tempo, recycled possession efficiently, and frequently broke lines. His vision was key in creating an expected goals (xG) of 3.46 for the Netherlands.
- Tijjani Reijnders - 7/10: Added vertical threat to disrupt Serbia’s low block, performing well in tight spaces before being subbed off in the 67th minute.
- Ryan Gravenberch - 7/10: Continued his fine form by shielding the ball and driving forward from deep positions, playing an important role in transition before replaced mid-second half.
Attack
- Mexx Meerdink - 9/10: Star of the match. Meerdink kept his cool to score a penalty in the 30th minute and then scored again in the 69th to seal the win, confirming his clinical finishing ability.
- Cody Gakpo - 5/10: Had a frustrating night, lasting only 17 minutes before injury forced him off. Limited chance to impact the game.
- Crysencio Summerville - 7/10: Constant threat with direct runs and skillful dribbling. Though he didn’t score, his movement created space for teammates like Meerdink.
Substitutes & Manager
- Ruben van Bommel - 6/10: Replaced injured Gakpo early and worked hard to add width but lacked precision in final deliveries.
- Guus Til - 7/10: Made an immediate impact after coming on at 67 minutes by assisting Meerdink’s winning goal just two minutes later.
- Kenneth Taylor - 6/10: Came on to stabilize midfield and kept control after the lead was regained.
- Jurrien Timber - 5/10: Brief and somewhat erratic appearance; received a yellow card during a tense final phase.
- Quinten Timber - N/A: Introduced late to provide fresh energy in closing moments.
- Xavi Hernandez (Manager) - 8/10: Guided the team to dominate all statistical areas. His substitution choices proved crucial, especially bringing on Guus Til. Showed strong game management after Serbia’s equalizer.
Upcoming Fixtures in UEFA Nations League A
- Greece vs Netherlands – 1 October 2026, 21:45
- Germany vs Serbia – 1 October 2026, 21:45
