ONE TOUCH SUMMARY
- Mexx Meerdink scores brace, securing Netherlands' first Nations League win.
- Mexx Meerdink's double gives Xavi Hernandez a victorious debut.
- Netherlands defeat Serbia 2-1, thanks to Meerdink's goals.
ONE TOUCH INSIGHT
Xavi Hernández’s first win as Netherlands coach came courtesy of a Mexx Meerdink brace, but the scoreline flatters a side that still looks dependent on one striker. Meerdink’s two goals in the away win over Serbia showed his sharpness in the box, yet the Dutch created few clear chances beyond his movements. The victory gives Xavi a platform, but it also highlights the lack of a balanced attacking threat that can sustain pressure over ninety minutes.
If the Netherlands are to build on this result, Xavi must encourage wider involvement from midfielders and wingers so that the team does not rely on a single player’s finishing. Meerdink’s form is a useful asset, yet a predictable focal point makes the side easier to organise against in tighter games.
Xavi will need to see more varied goal contributions before the next Nations League match.
WHY IT MATTERS
Xavi Hernandez’s first win signals a positive start to his tenure, while Meerdink’s brace highlights emerging talent that could reshape the Dutch attack and bolster confidence ahead of major tournaments.
TACTICAL FIT
Meerdink’s ability to finish from tight angles and his pace on the flank complements Xavi’s possession-based system, offering a versatile forward option that can stretch defenses and create space for midfielders.
THE DEBATE
Is Meerdink the key to Xavi’s attacking success?
UEFA Nations League, Group A2
0-0-2, 0 PTS
1
0-0-2, 0 PTS
FT
1-1-0, 4 PTS
2
1-1-0, 4 PTS
Luka Jovic - 46'
Mexx Meerdink - 30' Pen, 69'
- Gamecast * Recap * Team Stats * Player Stats * Commentary
Xavi gets 1st Netherlands win with Meerdink brace in Serbia
By Associated Press
Updated: Sep 27, 2026, 10:14 pm
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Mexx Meerdink scored twice as the Netherlands beat Serbia 2-1 away in the Nations League on Sunday, giving new coach Xavi Hernández his first win in charge.
The 23-year-old Meerdink, who plays for AZ Alkmaar, made his first start for his country and he opened the scoring with a confidently taken penalty in the 30th minute before canceling Luka Jović's equalizer after the break with what proved to be the winner in the 69th.
Mexx Meerdink celebrates scoring his second goal in the Netherlands' win over Serbia.
ANP via Getty Images
It was set up by Ruben van Bommel, who has now created as many goals in as many games for the Dutch after his brilliant cross for Cody Gakpo's late equalizer in the 1-1 draw with Germany on Friday.
Meerdink, who made his second appearance after his debut Friday, has two goals in as many games.
They gave the Netherlands its first win in Group A2, where Germany hosted Greece in Augsburg later.
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Game Information
4:00 PM, September 27, 2026
Rajko Mitic Stadium
Belgrade, Serbia
Attendance: 15,212
Where to Watch
FS2
Match Officials
Referee:Szymon Marciniak
2026 Standings
UEFA Nations League
| Group A2 | GP | W | D | L | GD | P | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Greece | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | +2 | 6 | | Netherlands | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | +1 | 4 | | Germany | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | -1 | 1 | | Serbia | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | -2 | 0 |
UEFA Nations League News
## Republic of Ireland beat Israel after skipping pregame handshakes The Republic of Ireland wore black armbands and skipped the typical prematch handshakes before securing a 3-0 victory over Israel in their contentious UEFA Nations League match Sunday. 2m
## Figo backs Ronaldo to continue to play for Portugal Figo backs Ronaldo to continue to play for Portugal 1h
## Liverpool, Netherlands await news on Cody Gakpo ankle injury The Netherlands and Liverpool must wait to discover the extent of an ankle injury suffered by forward Cody Gakpo on Sunday. 1h
AI-assisted · generated from ESPN FC reporting, not editor reviewed
