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

Mexx Meerdink stood out by scoring twice, helping Xavi Hernandez secure his debut victory as Netherlands manager in a competitive match at Stadion Rajko Mitic. Despite a quick equaliser from Luka Jovic early in the second half, the Oranje controlled possession and territory throughout to take all three points.

The Dutch held 67% of the ball and fired 25 shots, showing dominance despite some tense moments after halftime. Meerdink’s calm penalty finish in the first half was followed by a decisive goal late in the game, sealing the win. Serbia fought hard, with Jovic cancelling the opener just after the break, but the Dutch midfield, led by industrious Joey Veerman, eventually overwhelmed the hosts. This victory places the Netherlands atop Group 2, demonstrating both creative flair and resilience on the road.

Goalkeeper & Defence

  • Bart Verbruggen - 6/10: The Brighton keeper had a quiet night overall but couldn’t stop Jovic’s clinical strike after halftime. He made five saves, providing stability when Serbia threatened on counterattacks.
  • Virgil van Dijk - 7/10: The captain showed calm leadership, organizing the defence against Serbia’s physical style. He played a key role in building attacks, contributing to the team’s 634 passes and maintaining a high defensive line.
  • Jan Paul van Hecke - 6/10: Delivered a steady performance, helping limit Serbia to six shots on target despite the intense Belgrade atmosphere.
  • Micky van de Ven - 7/10: His speed was crucial in neutralizing Serbia’s long balls. Van de Ven’s covering runs allowed Dutch full-backs to push forward, helping produce 51 clearances under pressure.
  • Denzel Dumfries - 6/10: Worked tirelessly on the right flank before being subbed off in the 80th minute. His presence helped keep Serbian wingers pinned back.

Midfield

  • Joey Veerman - 8/10: The midfield engine. Veerman controlled the tempo, recycling possession with accuracy and breaking through lines, key to generating an expected goals (xG) of 3.46.
  • Tijjani Reijnders - 7/10: Added vertical threat to unsettle Serbia’s low block. He managed tight spaces well before being taken off in the 67th minute.
  • Ryan Gravenberch - 7/10: Strong in protecting the ball and driving forward from deep positions. He influenced transitions until replaced by Kenneth Taylor later on.

Attack

  • Mexx Meerdink - 9/10: Clear man of the match. Showed coolness to convert a 30th-minute penalty and scored again in the 69th minute, clinching the win with composure beyond his years.
  • Cody Gakpo - 5/10: A frustrating evening cut short by injury after 17 minutes, limiting his impact on the game.
  • Crysencio Summerville - 7/10: Constant threat with direct runs and skillful movement, creating space for teammates even without scoring.

Substitutes & Manager

  • Ruben van Bommel - 6/10: Replaced the injured Gakpo early, added width and worked hard but lacked the final pass to break down Serbia fully.
  • Guus Til - 7/10: Came on at 67 minutes and quickly made an impact by assisting Meerdink’s winning goal two minutes later.
  • Kenneth Taylor - 6/10: Brought on to stabilize midfield after the lead was regained, helped keep control.
  • Jurrien Timber - 5/10: Came on late but picked up a yellow card during a scrappy period.
  • Quinten Timber - N/A: Introduced in the last 10 minutes for fresh legs.
  • Xavi Hernandez (Manager) - 8/10: Tactically astute, dominating all key stats. His substitution decisions paid off, showing strong game management after Serbia’s equaliser.

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