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Mexx Meerdink Shines as Xavi Hernandez Claims First Win with Netherlands Over Serbia

Mexx Meerdink stood out with two goals, securing Xavi Hernandez's first victory as the Dutch head coach. The match took place at Stadion Rajko Mitic, where the Oranje controlled possession and created numerous chances despite a late scare.

Match Overview

The Netherlands dominated with 67% possession and fired 25 shots, but Serbia responded strongly after halftime when Luka Jovic equalized just a minute after the restart. Meerdink’s calm penalty conversion in the first half and his winning goal later proved decisive. Joey Veerman led the midfield, helping the Dutch wear down their opponents tactically.

This win places the Netherlands top of Group 2, showing both creativity and resilience away from home in Belgrade.

Goalkeeper & Defence Ratings

  • Bart Verbruggen - 6/10: Had a quiet night but made five important saves, though he couldn’t stop Jovic’s strike early in the second half.
  • Virgil van Dijk - 7/10: Provided calm leadership, organizing the defense and contributing to the high passing count with 634 completed passes.
  • Jan Paul van Hecke - 6/10: Delivered a steady defensive effort, limiting Serbia to just six shots on target.
  • Micky van de Ven - 7/10: Used his speed to neutralize Serbian long balls and supported the team’s high press with 51 clearances.
  • Denzel Dumfries - 6/10: Energetic on the right flank before being subbed off in the 80th minute, helping keep Serbian wingers pinned back.

Midfield Performances

  • Joey Veerman - 8/10: The midfield engine, controlling possession and creating opportunities with sharp passing and movement.
  • Tijjani Reijnders - 7/10: Played well in tight areas, adding verticality before his substitution at 67 minutes.
  • Ryan Gravenberch - 7/10: Protected the ball effectively and pushed forward, instrumental in transitions before being replaced midway through the second half.

Attack Highlights

  • Mexx Meerdink - 9/10: Clear standout, scoring the opening penalty and the winning goal, showing impressive composure and finishing skills.
  • Cody Gakpo - 5/10: Limited impact due to an early injury that forced him off after 17 minutes.
  • Crysencio Summerville - 7/10: Threatened with direct runs and clever movement, creating space for teammates despite not scoring.

Substitutes & Manager

  • Ruben van Bommel - 6/10: Came on early for the injured Gakpo, providing width but lacking precision in final passes.
  • Guus Til - 7/10: Made an immediate impact with an assist for Meerdink’s winning goal shortly after entering the game.
  • Kenneth Taylor - 6/10: Brought on to stabilize midfield, maintained control after the lead was regained.
  • Jurrien Timber - 5/10: Short appearance marred by a yellow card in a tense closing period.
  • Quinten Timber - N/A: Entered late to add energy in the final stages.
  • Xavi Hernandez (Manager) - 8/10: Demonstrated tactical skill, dominating statistical categories and making key substitutions that led to victory.

Upcoming Nations League Fixtures

  • Greece vs Netherlands: 1 October 2026, 21:45
  • Germany vs Serbia: 1 October 2026, 21:45

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