Japan deny Netherlands by fighting back twice in World Cup opener

Japan twice fight back to draw 2-2 with Netherlands in World Cup Group F opener

Japan twice came from behind to secure a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group F opener at Dallas Stadium on Sunday, according to multiple reports. The result leaves both teams level on one point in a group that also features Sweden and Tunisia.

Match Summary

The Netherlands took the lead in the 50th minute through captain Virgil van Dijk, who scored with a header from a Gravenberch cross, as reported by France 24 — English. Japan equalized seven minutes later when Keito Nakamura found the net, restoring parity for the Samurai Blue.

Crysencio Summerville restored the Dutch advantage in the 64th minute with a curled finish into the bottom corner, and the Netherlands appeared to be heading for victory. However, in the 89th minute, Daichi Kamada struck an equalizer for Japan, with the goal coming from a glancing header off a corner, according to France 24 — English. The strike sparked wild celebrations among Japanese supporters and secured an unexpected point for the Asian side.

TASS — English reported the match was played at Dallas Stadium in front of a crowd, with Japan's goals scored by Nakamura in the 57th minute and Kamada in the 89th minute. The Dutch goals came from van Dijk (50th minute) and Summerville (64th minute).

Context and Group Implications

Both teams entered the match with high expectations. Japan, ranked 18th in the FIFA rankings, has reached every World Cup since first qualifying in 1998, according to France 24 — English. The Netherlands, three-time World Cup runners-up, endured a turbulent qualification campaign but remain a formidable side.

The draw sets up a competitive Group F, with Sweden and Tunisia also vying for places in the knockout stage. As France 24 — English noted, the group is widely considered one of the toughest in the tournament, and every point is precious.

Japan's next match is against Tunisia on Sunday, while the Netherlands face Sweden on Saturday, as reported by TASS. Japan later defeated Tunisia 4-0 in their second group match, with goals from Ayase Ueda (twice), Daichi Kamada, and Junya Ito, according to Al Jazeera.