09/27/26 01:37:00
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09/27 13:36 CDT Meerdink gives Xavi his first win as Netherlands coach, Israel
faces Ireland in contentious match
Meerdink gives Xavi his first win as Netherlands coach, Israel faces Ireland in
contentious match
By CIARAN FAHEY
AP Sports Writer
Mexx Meerdink scored twice as the Netherlands beat Serbia 2-1 away in the
Nations League on Sunday, giving new coach Xavi Hernndeez his first win in
charge.
The 23-year-old Meerdink, who plays for AZ Alkmaar, made his first start for
his country and he opened the scoring with a confidently taken penalty in the
30th minute before canceling Luka Jovic's equalizer after the break with what
proved to be the winner in the 69th.
It was set up by Ruben van Bommel, who has now created as many goals in as many
games for the Dutch after his brilliant cross for Cody Gakpo's late equalizer
in the 1-1 draw with Germany on Friday.
Meerdink, who made his second appearance after his debut Friday, has two goals
in as many games.
They gave the Netherlands its first win in Group A2, where Germany hosted
Greece in Augsburg later.
Ireland vs Israel on and off the field
Israel will play Ireland later in Debrecen, Hungary in a match that has faced
bitter opposition in Ireland over Israel's actions in Gaza.
Reserve goalkeeper Gavin Bazuno decided Saturday to boycott both of Ireland's
games against Israel because of what he said was his "personal belief that the
killing of innocent people is wrong."
The remaining Irish players intended to wear black armbands and refrain from
the customary pre-game niceties.
Austria defeated Kosovo 3-1 in the other Group B3 game Sunday.
Also, Denmark defeated Wales 2-0 for its first win in Group A4, where Norway
hosted Portugal later.
Lithuania and Azerbaijan drew 1-1 in Group D2.
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