Japan Stun Netherlands with Late Comeback to Secure Thrilling Draw in Electrifying Encounter
The Netherlands and Japan drew 2-2 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group F opener, with Japan extending their unbeaten run to eight games.
The Dutch, known for their strong starts, faced a Japan team that has recently challenged European heavyweights.
In the early stages, Donyell Malen forced a fine save from Zion Suzuki, while Shōgo Taniguchi's surging run set up Daizen Maeda, who was denied by Jan Paul van Hecke.
The Dutch seemed likely to break the deadlock, with Tijjani Reijnders' corner and Micky van de Ven's header both being saved or going over.
Japan's best first-half chances fell to Keito Nakamura and Ayase Ueda, who narrowly missed the target.
The Netherlands found the breakthrough in the 51st minute when Virgil van Dijk headed in a Ryan Gravenberch cross.
However, Japan equalized six minutes later through Nakamura's deflected shot.
Crysencio Summerville restored the Dutch lead with a fine left-footed strike, but Japan pushed for another equalizer, with Takefuso Kubo's long-range effort flying just over.
In the 89th minute, Kōki Ogawa's header from Junya Ito's corner gave Japan their second equalizer, leaving the Netherlands to rue surrendering their lead.
The result extended the Dutch unbeaten run to 17 World Cup group stage games, while Japan's recovery will give them hope of living up to their dark horses tag.
The Dutch, known for their strong starts, faced a Japan team that has recently challenged European heavyweights.
In the early stages, Donyell Malen forced a fine save from Zion Suzuki, while Shōgo Taniguchi's surging run set up Daizen Maeda, who was denied by Jan Paul van Hecke.
The Dutch seemed likely to break the deadlock, with Tijjani Reijnders' corner and Micky van de Ven's header both being saved or going over.
Japan's best first-half chances fell to Keito Nakamura and Ayase Ueda, who narrowly missed the target.
The Netherlands found the breakthrough in the 51st minute when Virgil van Dijk headed in a Ryan Gravenberch cross.
However, Japan equalized six minutes later through Nakamura's deflected shot.
Crysencio Summerville restored the Dutch lead with a fine left-footed strike, but Japan pushed for another equalizer, with Takefuso Kubo's long-range effort flying just over.
In the 89th minute, Kōki Ogawa's header from Junya Ito's corner gave Japan their second equalizer, leaving the Netherlands to rue surrendering their lead.
The result extended the Dutch unbeaten run to 17 World Cup group stage games, while Japan's recovery will give them hope of living up to their dark horses tag.
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