Preview Serbia: Xavi seeks the first win for the Oranje

The lights in the Rajko Mitic Stadium in Belgrade flicker as the supporters gather for the second group match of the UEFA Nations League. At 18:00, the Netherlands, led by Xavi Hernandez, face Serbia, with the Polish referee Szymon Marciniak blowing the whistle.

Dutch League campaign

The Dutch national team opened the League campaign on Thursday with a 1-1 draw against Germany at the Johan Cruyff Arena. Xavi Hernandez made his debut as head coach of the Netherlands, but an early goal by Virgil van Dijk was disallowed after a VAR intervention. Later, Felix Nmecha scored for Germany, after which Cody Gakpo found the equaliser in the 93rd minute. Brian Brobbey left the training camp with a hamstring injury.

Serbia under pressure

Serbia had a difficult start to the tournament, after they lost at home to Greece 1-2 on Thursday. The Serbians took the lead already in the fourth minute, but could not hold on to the points and conceded the decisive equaliser in the 95th minute. Head coach Veljko Paunovic is now under pressure to secure points in the second consecutive home match.

Return of Tadic

The most talked‑about change in the Serbian squad is the return of Dusan Tadic, the 37‑year‑old striker from NEC. After an absence of more than two years, he returned on Thursday against Greece in the Serbian shirt and provided the assist for the opening goal after four minutes. His presence could significantly boost the team's creativity.

Ruben van Bommel meets Stankovic brothers at Serbia international

Changes in the Dutch attack

Due to Brian Brobbey's injury and physical issues for Lutsharel Geertruida, the Dutch attacking line has become thinner. Xavi Hernandez called up Joshua Zirkzee as a replacement for the striker position. In addition, Mexx Meerdink and Ruben van Bommel made their official debut in the Netherlands shirt, giving two young talents their chance.

Serbia's dangerous elements

In addition to Tadic's creativity, Serbia has specific strengths that can surprise the Netherlands. Besiktas striker Dusan Vlahovic remains absent due to injury, while midfielder Sergej Milinkovic‑Savic retains control of the game. On the flanks, the Netherlands must beware of PSV wing‑back Filip Kostic, whose precise crosses are a key weapon.

Match details

The clash at the Rajko Mitic Stadium in Belgrade kicks off at 18:00 and is overseen by Polish referee Szymon Marciniak. The points matter for both nations, as neither has managed to win their first group match. The game is on tonight on NPO 1.

First Netherlands‑Serbia clash in Belgrade, Van Dijk nears 100 caps

Significance for Xavi

With both teams yet to secure a win, the evening is crucial for Xavi Hernandez. A point or a victory could determine the direction of the League campaign and relieve pressure on the head coach.