Xavi gets 1st Netherlands win with Meerdink brace in Serbia

Updated: Sep 28, 2026, 03:44 am

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.
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.