Meerdink gives Xavi his first win as Netherlands coach, Israel faces Ireland in contentious match
Mexx Meerdink scored twice as the Netherlands secured their first victory under new coach Xavi Hernándeez, defeating Serbia 2-1 away in the Nations League on Sunday. The 23-year-old, playing for AZ Alkmaar, made his first appearance for his country and opened the scoring with a penalty in the 30th minute. Luka Jović equalized before the break, but Meerdink scored the winner in the 69th minute.
This win gave the Netherlands its first triumph in Group A2, where Germany played Greece in Augsburg later. Israel will face Ireland in a contentious match in Debrecen, Hungary, following the latter's stance on Israel's actions in Gaza.
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