Xavi celebrates Dutch victory at the Rajko Mitić in Belgrade

At the Rajko Mitić Stadium in Belgrade, manager Xavi Hernández secured his first win as the Netherlands coach, thanks to a powerful left-footed strike from Mexx Meerdink that sealed the victory. The feat was recorded by Reuters and the account of Juan Bautista Martínez, accompanied by AI-generated audio.

A goal that recalls Maradona

Meerdink's goal evokes the magic of the Little Maracanã of Belgrade, an iconic venue for Barcelona fans who remember Diego Armando Maradona's visit in October 1982, when he wore the blaugrana shirt and scored an unforgettable silky goal. That historical reference was mentioned in the match coverage.

Match details

Marko Djurica, present on the scene, observed how Meerdink, son of a former international striker, opened the scoring with a hard, unstoppable shot. The action came after a play that involved the wide forwards and the intention to retain possession in the opponent's half.

Meerdink and Veerman lead Xavi to first Nations League win

The Dutch team, without stars like Maradona, showed a clear desire to take the lead, lining up three forwards and relying on the creativity of midfielder Veerman, from Dortmund, and the energy of Dumfries, who brushed past the second goal before making contact with the goalkeeper's body.

Opponent's response and match closure

However, former Real Madrid player Luka Jovic, now at AEK, equalised at the 46th minute, exploiting a defence that failed to quell the danger after two clearances by goalkeeper Verbruggen. Despite the draw, the Netherlands kept the pressure, with Van Bommel and Reijnders creating further chances.

Reijnders learns fine Xavi tricks with the Netherlands and eyes League

In the end, the assist from Taylor, a PSV player, to Meerdink resulted in a powerful cross-shot that again ripped the Serbian net, cementing the Dutch victory. Xavi, satisfied, was already singing the win while looking ahead to the next challenge in Greece.