Steven Bergwijn's maiden international goal wins the match for Netherlands: UEFA Nations League

Netherlands forward Steven Bergwijn scored his first international goal just past the hour mark to secure a hard-fought 1-0 win over Poland in their Nations League clash on Friday as heavy home pressure finally paid dividends at the Johan Cruyff Arena.

Netherlands, the runners-up of the inaugural edition of the competition were playing their first match after the departure of Ronald Koeman to Barcelona. Although without him, their performance did not falter.

Frenkie de Jong's long range cross-field pass found Hans Hateboer who in turn headed the ball down to Bergwijn for a simple tap-in from close range to score his maiden international goal.

Halfway through the first half Quincy Promes was the first player to get a cler sight of goal. However, he dragged his shot wide of the Polish goal.

Poland's first chance came just past the half hour mark through Krzysztof Piatek but the Dutch keeper was equal to it and denied Poland the lead. However, it was their only real chance as the hosts dominated the match.

De Jong had hit the upright with the last touch of the first half, after a clever flick over the top of the defence by Memphis Depay. De Jong chested the ball down and swivelled a shot towards goal, only to be denied by the woodwork.

There was also a good chance for Depay early in the second half but he was caught unawares when the Polish defence failed to clear an incoming cross.

Poland missed Robert Lewandowski after the Bayern Munich striker was given time off following his UCL success with the club.

The hosts deservedly went ahead in the 61st minute, Hans Hateboer heading De Jong's deep cross into the path of Bergwijn, who tapped into an empty net from four yards.

Netherlands next host Italy in Amsterdam on Monday, while Poland visit Bosnia in Zenica. The Italians were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Bosnia on Friday.