Meerdink scores first penalty for the Dutch, Xavi celebrates first win

While the Dutch national team under head coach Xavi finally achieved its first win, Mexx Meerdink was in the spotlight with a historic penalty goal. In Belgrade, Orange won 2‑1 against Serbia, a match in which the statistics were clearly in favor of the Belgians.

Meerdink's unique penalty

Meerdink, the AZ striker, scored in his second international from the penalty spot. He thus became only the second Orange international this century to net his first international goal via a penalty; Vincent Janssen did so in 2016.

First Eredivisie scorer after a long time

After nineteen consecutive Orange goals by Premier‑League players and then 29 goals in a row by players outside the Netherlands, Meerdink broke the streak. The previous Eredivisie player to score was Quinten Timber in September 2025, when he was still playing for Feyenoord.

Joey Veerman looks to Xavi for guidance after Dutch recall

Statistics of the Nations‑League duel

Serbia had only two shots, both in the Dutch penalty area, while Orange created few chances in the first half. Joey Veerman acted as the distribution hub for the team.

The victory marks an important milestone for both Xavi and the young Meerdink, who now receives a prominent role within the national squad.

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