Kenya Sport

Mexx Meerdink Shines with Two Goals in Netherlands' Nations League Win Over Serbia

Mexx Meerdink, the 23-year-old AZ striker, turned heads with a remarkable two-goal performance as the Netherlands claimed a 2-1 win against Serbia at the Rajko Mitic Stadium in Belgrade. This marked his first full international start, which he earned after Brian Brobbey had to withdraw due to injury.

A Calm Penalty and a Decisive Finish

Meerdink opened the scoring by calmly converting a first-half penalty after Crysencio Summerville was fouled inside the box. Serbia’s Luka Jović leveled early in the second half, but Meerdink sealed the win in the 78th minute with a sliding finish following a precise assist from Guus Til. This victory gave the Netherlands their first success in the UEFA Nations League campaign.

From Substitute to Star

Reflecting on his rapid rise from a substitute appearance against Germany to a key player in Belgrade, Meerdink shared his excitement. He admitted to feeling some pressure before stepping up for the penalty but said scoring twice and helping secure the three points felt incredible.

"It is a childhood dream," Meerdink said. "Everything has happened so quickly this week. I felt a little pressure before the penalty, but to score twice and help the team win feels great."

Work Rate Praised by Coach Xavi Hernández

Manager Xavi Hernández praised Meerdink not only for his goals but also for his tireless defensive efforts and pressing when out of possession. Positioned as the focal point in attack, Meerdink disrupted Serbia's build-up play consistently while building effective connections with teammates Joey Veerman and Guus Til.

Xavi confirmed that Meerdink is now the designated second penalty taker for the team, behind Cody Gakpo, highlighting the trust placed in the young forward.

Next Challenge: Greece

Looking ahead, Meerdink and the Dutch squad are focusing on their next Nations League match against group leaders Greece in Thessaloniki. The striker hopes to maintain his momentum and secure a regular starting position under Xavi’s guidance. The teams will meet again in Eindhoven on Sunday for the return fixture, where Meerdink aims to continue his scoring form.

  • Match: Serbia 1-2 Netherlands
  • Date: 28 September 2026
  • Venue: Rajko Mitic Stadium, Belgrade
  • Goals: Mexx Meerdink (penalty, 1st half; sliding finish, 78th minute), Luka Jović (Serbia)
  • Coach: Xavi Hernández
  • Next Match: Greece vs Netherlands, 1 October 2026, 21:45 CET

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