Netherlands Calls Up Striker Meerdink for World Cup 2026 Qualifiers

Ronald Koeman has named a 24-man Netherlands squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Malta and Finland, including a first-time call-up for AZ Alkmaar striker Mexx Meerdink. Meerdink joins established forwards Memphis Depay, the Dutch all-time top scorer, and Wout Weghorst, with winger Donyell Malen also available as a striker. Meerdink is seen as cover due to Depay's limited playtime at Corinthians and injury concerns surrounding Depay and Weghorst. Notably, Feyenoord's Sem Steijn and Napoli's Noa Lang have been omitted from the squad, while Burnley's Quilindschy Hartman returns after nearly two years. The Netherlands currently leads Group G with 10 points and aims to qualify for the 2026 World Cup to be held in the US, Canada, and Mexico. The team faces Malta away on October 9 and Finland at home on October 12 in critical qualification matches.