Xavi Demands Better Netherlands Pressing After Serbia Win
Xavi has challenged the Netherlands to improve despite taking three points in Serbia, admitting Oranje’s pressing fell below his standards before the break.
What we know
- AZ Alkmaar forward Mexx Meerdink scored both goals to secure the Dutch victory.
- Xavi said winning remained the priority, but he was unhappy with his side’s first-half pressing.
- The coach praised Meerdink’s display as more than a two-goal contribution.
- Meerdink was singled out for his work rate, tactical understanding and willingness to serve the team.
- Xavi said the squad is comfortable in the structure being introduced and believes several aspects of the performance were positive.
Next step: Greece and Serbia tests await
The Netherlands now face fixtures against Greece and Serbia again, giving Xavi an immediate chance to demand a sharper response without the ball.
He wants the team to combine Meerdink’s cutting edge with the positional control required by his system. The striker’s brace has strengthened his case, but Xavi’s message after the win was clear: the result was welcome, yet the level must rise.
