Mexx Meerdink scored twice to secure a 2-1 victory for the Netherlands over Serbia at the historic “Little Maracanã” stadium, delivering the first win of Xavi Hernández’s managerial tenure with the Dutch side. The result lifts the visitors to three points in their ongoing campaign, bouncing back from a late 1-1 draw against Germany earlier in the week.
Meerdink Steps Up After Brobbey Injury
The decisive breakthrough arrived through 23-year-old forward Mexx Meerdink, who made his first international start in place of the injured Brian Brobbey. Meerdink made his senior international debut off the bench against Germany days prior. Operating as the focal point of the attack, he converted a 28th-minute penalty kick earned after Summerville was brought down in the box. The opening half closed with the Dutch controlling 65 percent of possession, though the period had started with a setback when Cody Gakpo departed due to injury and was replaced by young forward Ruben Van Bommel.
Jović Equalizes Before the Winner
Serbia head coach Paunovic turned to former Real Madrid forward Luka Jović at halftime, introducing the AEK Athens attacker to spark the frontline. The tactical adjustment paid immediate dividends within the opening minute of the second half. Jović capitalized on a goalmouth scramble after a mix-up involving Dutch defender Denzel Dumfries, poking home the equalizer to level the score at 1-1.
Securing the Three Points in Serbia
Following the equalizer, Xavi’s side reclaimed territorial control and pressed for a winner. Ruben Van Bommel struck the goalpost, and Tijjani Reijnders fired just over the crossbar before Meerdink struck again to restore the advantage at 1-2. Serbia pushed hard for a second equalizer, with Jović coming close via a header that drifted narrowly wide. To neutralize the late pressure, Xavi introduced the Timber brothers to shore up defensive stability and preserve the narrow lead through the final whistle.
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