Analysis The numbers behind the result
Clinical Netherlands edge Serbia despite dominant possession
The Netherlands' 2-1 victory was justified by their superior chance creation, with the Dutch registering 25 shots (8 on target) to Serbia's 11 (6 on target). Despite Serbia's equaliser through Luka Jovic (46') shortly after halftime, Mexx Meerdink's brace (30' pen, 69') proved decisive, showcasing the Netherlands' efficiency against a Serbia side that managed just 33% possession.
Xavi's side dominated the ball (67% possession) and translated this into 15 shots inside the box compared to Serbia's 10. The Dutch also forced 10 blocked shots, highlighting their sustained pressure. Meerdink's penalty and the assist from Guus Til for the winner underscored the Netherlands' clinical edge in key moments, despite Serbia's goalkeeper Vanja Milinković-Savić making 6 saves to keep the scoreline respectable.
The telling stat was the Netherlands' 25 total shots — more than double Serbia's output — with their xG of 2.1 closely matching the actual scoreline, while Serbia's 1.0 xG suggests they slightly overperformed with their lone goal.