The Netherlands began the Xavi era with a 1-1 draw against Germany on Sunday. Cody Gakpo headed home a dramatic equaliser in the second minute of added time, set up by debutant Ruben van Bommel.
New head coach Xavi Hernández saw his side fall behind at the Johan Cruijff Arena. Felix Nmecha fired Germany ahead around the half-hour mark, shortly after Brian Brobbey had gone off with a hamstring injury. The first half exposed the same defensive frailties that saw the Dutch exit the World Cup. A headed goal from Virgil van Dijk was disallowed for obstruction by Brobbey, and Mexx Meerdink also had a strike wrongly ruled out.
After the break, the Netherlands completely turned the tide. Xavi’s four-at-the-back system, a break from predecessor Ronald Koeman’s approach, provided greater control. The pressure increased and chances followed. Substitutes Joey Veerman and Guus Til brought energy, while young debutants Van Bommel and Meerdink showed no fear. "Mexx and Ruben showed personality, ambition and desire," Xavi said afterwards. "This is what we want."
The equaliser finally arrived out of nothing. In the dying seconds, Van Bommel found Gakpo, who powered home an unstoppable header. It was the team's tenth goal of the season, with only four conceded. Their unbeaten run across the last five internationals now reads DDWWD.
The next challenge comes quickly. The Netherlands travel to Belgrade to face Serbia. That match is key to maintaining their position at the top of the group. The full squad and upcoming fixtures for the weeks ahead are available online. The starting lineup against Germany was: Verbruggen; Frimpong, De Ligt, Van Dijk, Maatsen; Timber, Reijnders; Simons, Gakpo, Malen; Brobbey.
Further reading: NRC Sport
