Xavi Hernández finally has a victory to celebrate as Netherlands boss. His side edged past Serbia by two goals to one on Sunday in a Nations League fixture played on the road, and a young striker from AZ Alkmaar stole the show.
Mexx Meerdink, aged 23, was handed his first starting berth for the Oranje and repaid that faith quickly. On the half hour mark he stepped up from the spot and calmly sent his kick home. Serbia responded after the interval when Luka Jović levelled matters, yet Meerdink had the final word in the 69th minute, restoring the lead for good.
The decisive moment owed plenty to Ruben van Bommel, who delivered the pass that led to the goal. His influence is becoming a pattern. On Friday he supplied a superb cross that let Cody Gakpo rescue a point against Germany in a 1 to 1 draw. That means he has set up a goal in each of his appearances so far.
Meerdink’s numbers are just as tidy. Having made his debut on Friday, he now owns two goals from two outings for his country.
The result also gives the Dutch their opening win in Group A2. Germany, meanwhile, were due to entertain Greece in Augsburg later that day.
