Japan displayed remarkable resilience as they earned a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F opener on Sunday. The Samurai Blue twice came from behind at Dallas Stadium to secure a valuable point and underline their ambition at the tournament.
Daichi Kamada scored the dramatic equaliser in the 88th minute. Koki Ogawa’s powerful header appeared destined for goal before the ball deflected off Kamada’s head and beat Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
Japan Show Character After Early Setbacks
Japan entered the match without injured captain Wataru Endo. However, Hajime Moriyasu’s side responded with determination and discipline. The Netherlands created the first major chance, but goalkeeper Zion Suzuki denied Donyell Malen in the opening minutes.
After a balanced first half, the Dutch broke the deadlock in the 51st minute. Virgil van Dijk headed home from Ryan Gravenberch’s cross to give his side the lead.
Japan responded quickly. Seven minutes later, Keito Nakamura fired a deflected shot into the bottom corner after receiving a pass from Takefusa Kubo.
Late Equaliser Secures Valuable Point
The Netherlands regained the advantage in the 65th minute. Crysencio Summerville curled a superb left-footed strike beyond Suzuki to restore the lead.
Nevertheless, Japan refused to surrender. Kubo continued to threaten the Dutch defence, while Ogawa created problems in the closing stages. Their persistence finally paid off when Kamada’s late touch guided the ball into the net and secured a deserved draw.
Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu praised his players for remaining calm despite difficult circumstances. Meanwhile, Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman expressed frustration after watching his side surrender the lead twice.
The result leaves both teams with one point ahead of their next Group F fixtures, with the Netherlands set to face Sweden on Saturday.
