The Netherlands will attempt to record their first clean sheet of 2026 when they meet Serbia in the Nations League on Sunday, with Denzel Dumfries admitting the team must improve defensively.
The Oranje have conceded in all 11 of their matches this year. Their latest defensive setback came against Greece, when they allowed two goals but recovered from a two-goal deficit to earn a draw.
Despite that record, the Netherlands remain unbeaten in their three matches under Xavi, with one win and two draws. They sit second in their Nations League group.
Dumfries said the squad were focused on reducing the number of goals they concede.
“That is a nice challenge for the team. We want to change things and concede fewer goals,” said Dumfries.
“It is not a problem, but it is, of course, an issue. When you look at the defenders we have, you shouldn’t be conceding so many goals.
“That is a point of attention we are working on to improve.”
The match at Philips Stadion could also mark a major milestone for Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk, who is in line to make his 100th appearance for his country.
Van Dijk has scored 18 goals for the Netherlands and has played a key role in several of the team’s recent major tournaments. He helped them reach the semi-finals of Euro 2024, the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup and the final of the inaugural Nations League in 2019.
Xavi praised the defender’s leadership but stopped short of confirming whether he would play against Serbia.
“It could be an emotional day for Virgil,” Xavi said. “I am very happy to work with him and he is a true leader.”
“He fits in well. One hundred caps is incredible. Whether he plays? We’ll see on Sunday.”
