Mexx Meerdink Shines as Netherlands Claim Victory Over Serbia in Nations League

Mexx Meerdink scored twice, securing Xavi Hernandez's first competitive win as the Dutch coach. Despite a quick equalizer from Luka Jovic, the Netherlands controlled much of the game at Stadion Rajko Mitic, finishing with 67% possession and 25 shots.

Match Overview

The Oranje overcame an early second-half setback after Jovic's goal just after the break. Joey Veerman led the midfield effort, helping wear down Serbia's resistance. This victory puts the Netherlands top of Group 2, showing both creativity and resilience on Serbian soil.

Player Ratings

• Bart Verbruggen (Goalkeeper): 6/10 - Had a quiet night but couldn’t stop Jovic’s precise strike. Made five saves overall.
• Virgil van Dijk: 7/10 - Commanded the defense with calmness, key to the team's buildup with 634 passes completed.
• Jan Paul van Hecke: 6/10 - Helped limit Serbia to six shots on target despite a hostile crowd.
• Micky van de Ven: 7/10 - His pace was crucial against long balls, allowing full-backs to advance.
• Denzel Dumfries: 6/10 - Provided energy and width on the right flank before his 80th-minute substitution.

• Joey Veerman (Midfield): 8/10 - The team’s engine, keeping possession flowing and breaking lines to create chances.
• Tijjani Reijnders: 7/10 - Added verticality and operated well in tight spaces before his 67th-minute exit.
• Ryan Gravenberch: 7/10 - Solid in protecting the ball and driving forward, replaced midway through the second half.

• Mexx Meerdink (Attack): 9/10 - Star of the match. Scored a composed penalty and the winning goal, proving clinical in front of goal.
• Cody Gakpo: 5/10 - Injured early in the 17th minute, limiting his impact.
• Crysencio Summerville: 7/10 - Constant threat with his direct runs and movement, creating space for teammates.

Substitutes and Manager

• Ruben van Bommel: 6/10 - Entered early for Gakpo, added width but lacked decisive final passes.
• Guus Til: 7/10 - Came on in the 67th minute and quickly assisted Meerdink’s winning goal.
• Kenneth Taylor: 6/10 - Helped maintain control after the lead was regained.
• Jurrien Timber: 5/10 - Brief appearance marred by a yellow card in a tense final phase.
• Quinten Timber: N/A - Provided fresh legs late in the game.
• Xavi Hernandez (Manager): 8/10 - His tactical choices paid off, especially the substitution that led to the winning goal, showing his growing influence on the team.

Upcoming Fixtures in UEFA Nations League A

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