Xavi seeks more improvement after first win as Netherlands boss

Syndicated reporting provided by Stats Perform and reviewed by the SoccerNews editorial team.

Xavi believes the Netherlands “have to play better” despite their victory over Serbia in the Nations League on Sunday.

Mexx Meerdink scored twice as the Netherlands won 2-1 at Stadion Rajko Mitic, seeing Xavi pick up his first win since taking over from Ronald Koeman.

It was a dominant display from Xavi’s side, who created 2.74 expected goals (xG) from 25 shots while restricting Serbia to 1.32 from 11 attempts, with the visitors also creating six Opta-defined big chances.

Meerdink impressed in just his second appearance for the Netherlands, while Joey Veerman controlled proceedings from midfield.

Veerman led the match in touches (135), passes (117 – level with Jan Paul van Hecke) and chances created (five), while also leading his team-mates in interceptions (three) and winning six of his nine duels.

Xavi drew plenty of positives from his maiden victory at the helm, but knows there is still plenty to improve upon.

“We have to be honest: we have to play better,” said the Spaniard.

“But there were good things and I’m happy with the attitude and the effort.

“We dominated and created more chances than them. We maintained our positions, we were organised, and thanks to that we were able to make better use of the spaces.”

— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) September 27, 2026

There was a concern, however, for both Xavi and Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola after Cody Gakpo was forced off with an ankle injury in the first half.

As well as scoring a late equaliser in the Netherlands’ 1-1 draw with Germany in Xavi’s first match in charge, Gakpo also leads Liverpool players in direct goal involvements this season (six – two goals, four assists).

When asked if Gakpo’s injury was serious, Xavi responded: “I don’t think so.

“It’s his ankle, that’s all I know. Tomorrow [Monday] we will know, but hopefully it’s not too important.”

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