The Netherlands kicked off their Nations League campaign with an impressive 5-2 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina at the Philips Stadion, highlighted by Joshua Zirkzee’s first international goal.
Making his first start for the Dutch national team, Zirkzee opened the scoring in the 13th minute with an inventive header, guiding the ball into the net after Xavi Simons’ blocked shot looped into the air. Bosnia quickly responded through Ermedin Demirovic, who finished off a quick counter-attack to level the score.
The Dutch regained their lead just before halftime when Zirkzee set up Tijjani Reijnders, who fired home with a precise left-footed shot. Reijnders continued to influence the game, providing a low cross that allowed Cody Gakpo to score the third goal early in the second half.
Bosnia’s hopes were briefly revived when veteran forward Edin Dzeko scored his 66th international goal, capitalizing on an accurate long pass from Esmir Bajraktarevic. However, the Netherlands sealed the win with late goals from substitutes Wout Weghorst and Xavi Simons, who struck in the closing minutes to secure a convincing victory.
The match marked the Netherlands’ first game since their European Championship semifinal appearance in July, and coach Ronald Koeman took the opportunity to refresh the squad with new talents ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Despite some defensive lapses, the Dutch attack proved too strong for Bosnia, showcasing a blend of youthful energy and veteran experience that bodes well for their future challenges.
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