Netherlands Player Ratings vs Serbia: Mexx Meerdink Shines as Xavi Hernandez Claims First Win

Mexx Meerdink scored twice to secure Xavi Hernandez's first victory as Netherlands manager in a hard-fought 2-1 win against Serbia. Despite an early second-half equalizer from Luka Jovic, the Oranje controlled possession and created numerous chances to claim three important points.

The match took place at Stadion Rajko Mitic, where the Dutch dominated with 67% possession and launched 25 shots. Meerdink's calm penalty finish in the first half and his decisive goal later on proved key. Serbia showed resilience, especially after Jovic’s quick reply just after halftime, but the tactical edge of the Dutch midfield, led by Joey Veerman, wore down the hosts. This result places the Netherlands atop Group 2, demonstrating both creativity and toughness away from home.

Goalkeeper & Defense

• Bart Verbruggen - 6/10: The Brighton goalkeeper faced limited action due to Dutch dominance but could not stop Jovic’s precise strike after halftime. Finished with five saves, steady when called upon.
• Virgil van Dijk - 7/10: Captain and defensive rock, he led the backline effectively against Serbia’s physical play, contributing heavily to the team's 634 completed passes and maintaining defensive stability.
• Jan Paul van Hecke - 6/10: Delivered a composed performance, helping limit Serbia to only six shots on target amid a hostile environment.
• Micky van de Ven - 7/10: His speed was crucial in countering Serbia’s long balls, allowing full-backs to push forward. Played a big role in the 51 clearances made by the Dutch defense.
• Denzel Dumfries - 6/10: Energetic as usual on the right flank, offering width and pressure until his substitution in the 80th minute.

Midfield

• Joey Veerman - 8/10: The heartbeat of the team, orchestrating play with precision and vision. Key to generating the Netherlands’ expected goals (xG) of 3.46 through intelligent passing and breaking lines.
• Tijjani Reijnders - 7/10: Added vertical threat and creativity to challenge Serbia’s compact defense before being replaced in the 67th minute.
• Ryan Gravenberch - 7/10: Strong in possession and transition, protecting the ball well and driving attacks forward until subbed for Kenneth Taylor.

Attack

• Mexx Meerdink - 9/10: Star performer with two goals, including a cool penalty and a crucial second strike. Demonstrated composure and clinical finishing to secure victory.
• Cody Gakpo - 5/10: Injury cut short his night after 17 minutes, limiting his impact on the game.
• Crysencio Summerville - 7/10: Threatened constantly with his direct runs and dribbling, creating space for teammates though he didn’t score himself.

Substitutes & Manager

• Ruben van Bommel - 6/10: Entered early for injured Gakpo, contributed effort and width but lacked the killer pass to break Serbia’s defense.
• Guus Til - 7/10: Effective substitute who assisted Meerdink’s winning goal shortly after coming on, a decisive tactical change.
• Kenneth Taylor - 6/10: Helped stabilize midfield after coming on, maintaining control during critical phases.
• Jurrien Timber - 5/10: Brief appearance marked by a yellow card as the match became tense late on.
• Quinten Timber - N/A: Brought on late to add fresh legs in closing minutes.
• Xavi Hernandez (Manager) - 8/10: His strategy ensured dominance in key stats and smart substitutions led directly to the winning goal. Showed strong game management after the equalizer.

Nations League Upcoming Fixtures

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