Netherlands earn first Xavi-era win against Serbia

The Netherlands have secured their first win under Xavi, giving the coach a positive result in his second match in charge. The victory also moved them provisionally to the top of Group 2 in League A, although Germany’s meeting with Greece was still to come.

The Dutch beat Serbia 2-1 in Belgrade. Mexx Meerdink opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 30th minute after Crysencio Summerville was brought down in the area by Aleksa Terzić. Serbia responded immediately after half-time, with substitute Luka Jović equalising in the 46th minute.

Meerdink restored the Netherlands’ lead in the 69th minute to complete his first international double. The AZ Alkmaar striker, who leads the Eredivisie scoring charts, provided the decisive contribution in a match where the visitors were put under pressure for long periods. Serbia created further opportunities to level, but goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen prevented another equaliser.

The result follows the Netherlands’ draw with Germany in Xavi’s opening game. It gives them an early advantage in the group, though their position remains provisional until the Germany-Greece fixture is played.