Mexx Meerdink Shines with Two Goals in Netherlands' 2-1 Win Over Serbia
Mexx Meerdink, the 23-year-old AZ striker, grabbed the spotlight during the Netherlands’ 2-1 UEFA Nations League win against Serbia in Belgrade. Stepping in after Brian Brobbey’s injury, Meerdink scored twice on his first full international start, fulfilling a lifelong ambition.
Calm Under Pressure: Penalty and Match-Winning Goal
Meerdink calmly converted a penalty in the first half after teammate Crysencio Summerville was fouled, giving the Dutch an early lead. Although Serbia’s Luka Jović leveled soon after the break, Meerdink finished off a slick move from Guus Til with a sliding strike in the 78th minute to seal the victory for the Oranje at the Rajko Mitic Stadium.
A Week of Rapid Rise and Team Praise
After the final whistle, Meerdink shared his excitement about how quickly things have changed for him this week—from coming off the bench against Germany to scoring the winner in Serbia. “It is a childhood dream,” he said. “I felt some pressure before the penalty, but scoring twice and helping the team win feels amazing.”
Manager Xavi Hernández praised Meerdink’s tireless effort beyond his goals, highlighting his defensive pressing and link-up play with teammates Joey Veerman and Guus Til. Xavi also revealed that Meerdink is now the second-choice penalty taker behind Cody Gakpo, reflecting the trust placed in the young forward.
Focus Turns to Greece Ahead
The Dutch squad now looks ahead to their Nations League match against group leaders Greece in Thessaloniki on Thursday. Meerdink hopes to continue his scoring streak and keep his spot in Xavi’s starting eleven. The teams will meet again in Eindhoven on Sunday for the return fixture.
- Date: 28 September 2026
- Competition: UEFA Nations League A
- Match Result: Serbia 1 - 2 Netherlands
- Goals by Mexx Meerdink: Penalty (1st half), Sliding finish (78th minute)
- Equalizer: Luka Jović (Serbia, early second half)
- Next Match: Greece vs Netherlands, 1 October 2026, 21:45
