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

Mexx Meerdink scored twice to secure a 2-1 victory for the Netherlands over Serbia in the UEFA Nations League, marking Xavi Hernandez's first competitive win as Oranje manager. Despite Luka Jovic’s equaliser just after halftime, the Dutch maintained control with 67% possession and 25 shots, dominating the match on Serbian soil.

The match at Stadion Rajko Mitic saw the Netherlands controlling the pace and territory. Meerdink calmly converted a penalty in the 30th minute and later netted the winning goal in the 69th. Serbia showed resilience, especially after Jovic’s strike, but the Dutch midfield, led by Joey Veerman, wore down their opponents to claim three crucial points.

Goalkeeper and Defense

  • Bart Verbruggen - 6/10: The Brighton keeper faced few threats but couldn’t stop Jovic’s goal right after the break. Finished with five saves, steady when needed.
  • Virgil van Dijk - 7/10: Captain Van Dijk commanded the defense effectively against Serbia’s physical style, contributing heavily to the team's build-up with accurate passing.
  • Jan Paul van Hecke - 6/10: Solid and consistent, helped keep Serbian shots on target to just six despite the hostile crowd.
  • Micky van de Ven - 7/10: His speed was crucial against long balls, enabling full-backs to advance and helping clear 51 threats during Serbian pressure spells.
  • Denzel Dumfries - 6/10: Energetic wing-back who pressured the Serbian wide players, substituted in the 80th minute after a hard-working display.

Midfield

  • Joey Veerman - 8/10: The engine of the team, expertly recycling possession and breaking defensive lines, driving an xG of 3.46.
  • Tijjani Reijnders - 7/10: Added verticality and movement, effective in tight spaces before being replaced in the 67th minute.
  • Ryan Gravenberch - 7/10: Strong at ball protection and forward runs, key in transitions before coming off midway through the second half.

Attack

  • Mexx Meerdink - 9/10: Star performer with a cool penalty finish and a decisive second goal that sealed the win, showcasing his clinical finishing skills.
  • Cody Gakpo - 5/10: Had to leave early due to injury, limiting his impact on the game.
  • Crysencio Summerville - 7/10: Persistent threat on the flank with direct runs and creativity, opening spaces for teammates even without scoring.

Substitutes and Manager

  • Ruben van Bommel - 6/10: Came on early to replace injured Gakpo, worked hard for width but lacked the final pass.
  • Guus Til - 7/10: Made a significant impact by assisting Meerdink’s winning goal shortly after entering the pitch.
  • Kenneth Taylor - 6/10: Helped stabilize midfield after coming on, keeping control after the lead was regained.
  • Jurrien Timber - 5/10: Brief and somewhat unsettled appearance, picking up a yellow card in a tense final phase.
  • Quinten Timber - N/A: Provided fresh legs late in the match.
  • Xavi Hernandez (Manager) - 8/10: His tactical approach saw total dominance in key stats, with timely substitutions leading directly to the winning goal, demonstrating strong game management.

Upcoming UEFA Nations League Fixtures

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

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