Xavi steadies the Netherlands and shares the lead in the Nations League

Since his appointment, Xavi Hernández has led the Netherlands national team to an unbeaten run: two wins, both against Serbia, and two draws against Germany and Greece, which allows them to share the Nations League lead with the Greek side, both on eight points.

Undefeated results under Xavi

Eight points accumulated place the Netherlands and Greece at the top of the group, while Germany lags behind. The tightest victory came against Serbia, where the Dutch pierced the opponent's net in the final minutes. The draws against Germany and Greece consolidated the shared leadership.

In the four matches played, the team has recorded a streak of twelve consecutive games in which it has conceded a goal, a pending issue that the coaching staff acknowledges as a priority. High pressing and increased intensity have become distinctive features of the Dutch style. An example of the offensive improvement was a 30‑pass move that kept possession for close to a minute, involving all players except goalkeeper Verbruggen.

Challenges and criticism of the new project

Although the attack has evolved, the defence remains under scrutiny, especially due to the inability to keep a clean sheet. The Dutch press has pointed to the first half against Serbia as particularly weak and has questioned the lack of a clean sheet in the four matches. Moreover, the streak of conceding a goal in twelve consecutive games highlights the need for greater defensive solidity.

Hans Kraay junior slams Xavi's international break: heavy for Dutch

The FIFA break coincided with the absences of De Jong, Gakpo, Brobbey, Van de Hecke and Donyell Malen, four key players that Xavi described as painful losses for his squad. Despite the absence of a world star and not having any Ballon d'Or candidates, the negative atmosphere that marked the Koeman era has completely vanished. Xavi was self‑critical after the first half against Greece, acknowledging the wrong tactical choice.

The Dutch press has also offered praise, highlighting Xavi's remarkable start and noting that, although he cannot perform miracles, he has added value to the team. A Sports headline claimed: “Xavi cannot do magic”, underscoring the reality of his achievements. These voices contrast with the criticism that points to isolated phases, but they agree that the project has revitalized the national team.

The upcoming Nations League fixtures, scheduled in the coming days, will test the continuity of Xavi's project and his ability to consolidate the shared lead. The tight schedule, with four matches in just eleven days, will be the true test of the stability found under his guidance.