Netherlands Player Ratings: Reijnders Shines as Xavi Hernandez’s Side Snatches Dramatic 2-2 Draw with Greece

Tijjani Reijnders and Virgil van Dijk spearheaded a remarkable second-half turnaround as the Netherlands recovered from a two-goal deficit to draw 2-2 against Greece in the UEFA Nations League clash at Thessaloniki's Stadio Toumbas.

The first half was rough for Xavi Hernandez’s team, struggling to handle Greece’s direct approach. Fotis Ioannidis opened the scoring in the 23rd minute, and Giorgos Masouras extended the lead just before halftime. Despite dominating possession at 71%, the Dutch failed to break down the Greek defensive block, leaving them with a steep challenge after the break.

Xavi’s decision to bring on Tijjani Reijnders and Ryan Gravenberch at halftime shifted the game’s momentum. Van Dijk started the comeback by heading home a corner from Joey Veerman in the 59th minute. The pressure finally paid off in the 89th minute when Reijnders scored the equalizer from inside the box. Though defensive errors early on will disappoint the coaching staff, the determination to rack up 19 shots and earn a point keeps their hopes alive in Group A2.

Goalkeeper & Defence

• Bart Verbruggen: 5/10 - Faced four shots on target and conceded twice. Not all goals were his fault, but his distribution suffered due to limited movement ahead.
• Denzel Dumfries: 6/10 - Hardworking on the right wing, adding width when central areas were clogged. Thought he had equalized, but VAR ruled his goal offside after a long review.
• Jurrien Timber: 5/10 - Tried to create overloads by stepping into midfield but was caught out during transitions. Substituted by Gjivai Zechiel in the 78th minute as the search for a goal intensified.
• Virgil van Dijk: 7/10 - Led the resurgence with a powerful header. His calm presence helped steady the defense, which looked vulnerable against Greek counters in the first half.
• Micky van de Ven: 5/10 - Provided vital recovery speed on the left but didn’t contribute much going forward despite the team’s possession dominance.

Midfield

• Quinten Timber: 4/10 - Struggled to control the pace and was bypassed easily in the first half. Replaced by Gravenberch at halftime to add energy and stability.
• Joey Veerman: 7/10 - The creative engine, delivering the corner that led to Van Dijk’s goal and maintaining tempo through 619 passes. Nearly scored from a free-kick but remained a dependable playmaker.
• Guus Til: 4/10 - Played in the number 10 role but remained largely ineffective as Greece crowded the center. Subbed off at halftime for a more dynamic option.

Attack

• Crysencio Summerville: 6/10 - The most aggressive attacker early on, winning fouls and trying to isolate defenders. His final balls were inconsistent but he kept pressure on the Greek defense.
• Ruben van Bommel: 3/10 - Had a tough first half with little impact going forward. His careless backpass in stoppage time allowed Greece’s second goal. Substituted at halftime.
• Mexx Meerdink: 5/10 - Brought energy upfront but lacked quality service and touches in the box. Was replaced by Joshua Zirkzee in the 70th minute.

Substitutes & Manager

• Tijjani Reijnders: 8/10 - The catalyst for change. His introduction brought urgency and verticality. Scored the crucial equalizer in the 89th minute, rewarding a lively performance.
• Ryan Gravenberch: 6/10 - Came on at halftime to improve ball retention and physical presence in midfield. Helped shift control firmly to the Netherlands in the second half.
• Noa Lang: 7/10 - Injected creativity and unpredictability from the left wing. Despite a yellow card, his crosses were dangerous and contributed to the late goal.
• Joshua Zirkzee: 7/10 - Nearly clinched the win with a strong header saved brilliantly in the 88th minute. His flick assisted Reijnders’ equalizer moments later.
• Gjivai Zechiel: 6/10 - Showed energy and willingness during his cameo after coming on in the 78th minute.
• Xavi Hernandez (Manager): 7/10 - His initial lineup struggled against Greece’s aggressive tactics. The triple substitution at halftime changed the match’s rhythm and rescued a vital point.

Match Details

• Date: 4 October 2026
• Competition: UEFA Nations League A
• Venue: Stadio Toumbas, Thessaloniki
• Final Score: Greece 2 - 2 Netherlands