Japan he fought back twice to earn a hard-fought 2-2 draw against The Netherlands in a fun clash of the group stage at 2026 FIFA World Cup in Dallas.
Daichi Kamada’s late strike ensured the Samurai Blue walked away with a point after Ronald Koeman’s side took the lead twice in one of the most anticipated first round encounters.
The result leaves both teams with work to do in their remaining group games, but underlined Japan’s reputation as one of the most resilient teams in the tournament.
The Dutch lead twice in an exciting contest
The Netherlands created the better chances during a cautious first half, with Donyella Malen repeatedly testing Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.
Their pressure finally paid off six minutes into the restart when captain Virgil van Dijk rose highest to head home Ryan Gravenberch’s cross.
Japan quickly responded. Keito Nakamura brought his side level in the 57th minute with a powerful low shot that went past goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
After 64 minutes, the Dutch regained the lead through Crysencia Summerville. The winger cut inside before firing an easy shot past Suzuki to make it 2-1.
Kamada’s late header earns Japan a point
Despite falling behind for the second time, Japan continued to push forward in search of another equalizer.
Their persistence paid off in the 88th minute when Kamada cleverly diverted Koki Ogawa into the net with a deft header to spark celebrations among the large contingent of Japanese fans in Dallas.
A late goal capped off an impressive comeback by Japan, who matched the Netherlands in determination and intensity throughout the contest.
While the Dutch will be disappointed not to keep all three points, Japan will take confidence from a performance that showed strong fighting spirit against one of Europe’s traditional heavyweights.
