Netherlands 2–1 Serbia: Zirkzee Winner Sends Dutch Top

Joshua Zirkzee came on as a substitute to score the winner as Netherlands defeated Serbia 2–1 in Eindhoven on Sunday, 4 October, moving top of their Nations League group. 

Zirkzee’s second-half goal helped Netherlands secure the three points, after they successfully won with the same result in Belgrade a week earlier. Yesterday’s win also gave Virgil van Dijk a successful end to his 100th international appearance. 

Koopmeiners Opens the Scoring Before Serbia Respond

Teun Koopmeiners was among four changes to the Dutch starting line-up, making his first start under Xavi. Koopmeiners scored in the 31st minute when his free-kick from the right travelled through a crowded penalty area and found the far bottom corner.

Serbia responded just four minutes later. Mihajlo Cvetkovic rose above Koopmeiners to head past Bart Verbruggen, scoring his first international goal and ensuring the teams went into half-time level. 

Zirkzee Makes the Difference After the Break

Introduced at half-time, Zirkzee restored the Netherlands’ advantage in the 72nd minute. Tijjani Reijnders reached the ball at the far post and played it back across goal, leaving the striker with a close-range finish. 

Joey Veerman and Reijnders also threatened to extend the lead, but the Dutch did not need a third goal. Despite Serbia’s strong start, the defence led by Van Dijk largely kept the visitors at bay, allowing the 35-year-old Liverpool centre-back to celebrate his milestone appearance with a win. 

Xavi Maintains Unbeaten Start

The Netherlands have now recorded two wins and two draws in Xavi’s first four matches in charge. Both victories have come against Serbia, who remain winless at the bottom of Group A2. 

With two group games remaining, the Dutch are well placed to push for a quarter-final spot. They next host Greece on 13 November before travelling to face Germany on 16 November.