Xavi Hernandez secured his first victory as Netherlands manager as the Dutch side defeated Serbia 2-1 in the UEFA Nations League 2026-27 in Belgrade.
The victory followed a 1-1 draw against Germany in Hernandez’s first match in charge and was driven by a two-goal performance from AZ Alkmaar striker Max Meerdink.
Meerdink opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Aleksa Terzic fouled Crysencio Summerville. The goal was Meerdink’s first for the Netherlands after making his international debut against Germany.
Serbia manager Veljko Paunovic responded by introducing experienced forward Luka Jovic at half-time. The substitute made an immediate impact, scoring less than a minute after the restart with a close-range finish to bring Serbia level.
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The Netherlands regained the lead in the 69th minute. Meerdink collected a pass from substitute Guus Til before firing a left-footed effort into the bottom corner to complete his brace.
The Dutch side, however, suffered a concern when forward Cody Gakpo was forced off with an injury during the first half.
The result gave Hernandez his first win since taking charge of the Netherlands, while Meerdink emerged as the decisive figure with two goals.
