Netherlands
The Netherlands edged Serbia 2-1 in a UEFA Nations League League A thriller, with Joshua Zirkzee’s 72nd-minute winner settling a contest that crackled with intensity from the first whistle.
From the moment Stefan Gudelj clattered into Tijjani Reijnders to earn an early yellow card, this was football played on a knife-edge. Serbia’s physical approach saw Strahinja Pavlovic booked before the half-hour, the Dutch midfielders dancing through tackles as orange shirts swarmed forward with 65% possession.
Netherlands Strike First But Serbia Hit Back
Teun Koopmeiners broke Serbian resistance after 31 minutes, arriving late to hammer home from 12 yards after sustained pressure. Yet just four minutes later, Mihajlo Cvetkovic silenced the Johan Cruyff Arena, finishing Aleksa Terzić’s cross against the run of play to make it 1-1.
The Dutch responded by peppering Vanja Milinković-Savić’s goal with 14 first-half shots. Only the Serbia keeper’s heroics – including a spectacular fingertip save to deny Reijnders – kept them level at the break.
Serbia’s Discipline Frays As Dutch Turn Screw
Three yellow cards in 20 second-half minutes told the story of Serbia’s unraveling. Coach Veljko Paunovic was among those cautioned as his side chased shadows, completing just 255 passes to the Netherlands’ 541.
The decisive moment came when Reijnders – who ran the show with 89 touches – slipped in substitute Zirkzee. The 21-year-old held off two challenges before slotting home, sending the Oranje faithful into raptures.
What This Means For Both Nations
For Xavi’s Netherlands, this hard-fought win puts them firmly in the League A promotion hunt. Their ability to dominate possession (618 total passes) and create chances (22 shots) will delight the new coach.
Serbia’s valiant defensive effort ultimately crumbled under constant pressure. With four players booked and just 35% possession, they must regroup quickly ahead of their next Nations League test.
Key Moments
31′ ⚽ Netherlands — Teun Koopmeiners
35′ ⚽ Serbia — Mihajlo Cvetkovic (assist: Aleksa Terzić)
72′ ⚽ Netherlands — Joshua Zirkzee (assist: Tijjani Reijnders)
