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Netherlands·Germany·Football

Xavi makes debut as Netherlands coach against Germany in Nations League[Updated]

Thursday, 24 September 2026, 06:29 · 1 min read
Updates
17d

The match ended 1-1, with the Netherlands scoring a stoppage-time equaliser to salvage a draw after a stronger second-half performance. Substitute Ruben van Bommel, one of two debutants alongside Mexx Meerdink, provided the assist for the late goal scored by Cody Gakpo. Forward Brian Brobbey was forced off after half an hour with an apparent hamstring injury and is unlikely to feature again during the international break, with Xavi confirming a replacement will be called up — potential options include Wout Weghorst and Joshua Zirkzee. Germany's new head coach Jürgen Klopp, also making his debut in charge, declined to accept Xavi's post-match congratulations, saying a draw was "not worth a handshake," though he acknowledged a win would have flattered his side.

Sources
Original story

New Netherlands head coach Xavi begins his tenure on Tuesday when the Dutch face Germany in a UEFA Nations League fixture in Amsterdam, with the Spaniard prioritising style of play over results in his first match in charge. In a departure from his predecessors, Xavi has chosen to withhold the starting lineup from both media and players until 90 minutes before kick-off, arguing the approach keeps every squad member fully engaged and motivated. Captain Virgil van Dijk, who confirmed he intends to continue with the national side through to Euro 2028 after a reinvigorating conversation with the new coach, is expected to lead the team as Xavi looks to implement a high-pressing, possession-based philosophy from the outset.

Sources
NOS Sport — Anders dan Koeman en Van Gaal houdt Xavi zijn basis geheim: ‘Zo blijft iedereen erbij' ↗︎NOS Sport — Van Dijk wist 'na één seconde' in gesprek met Xavi dat hij door wilde bij Oranje ↗︎NOS Sport — Xavi vindt uitvoering bij Oranje belangrijker dan resultaat tegen Duitsland ↗︎
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