Japan Fight Back to Hold Netherlands in 2-2

World Cup: Japan Fight Back Late to Hold Netherlands in 2-2 World Cup: Japan Fight Back Late to Hold Netherlands in 2-2
Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup 2026 - Group F - Netherlands v Japan - Dallas Stadium, Arlington, Texas, U.S. - June 14, 2026 Japan's Ritsu Doan in action with Netherlands' Cody Gakpo IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters/Tim Heitman

Japan produced a dramatic late equaliser in the 88th minute to secure a 2-2 draw with Netherlands in a pulsating World Cup Group F opener in Texas.

The match, played in front of 69,285 fans, saw both sides trade blows in a high-tempo second half after a relatively quiet opening period.

World Cup: Japan Fight Back Late to Hold Netherlands in 2-2 Credit: AFP

Netherlands Twice Take the Lead

The Dutch went ahead through captain Virgil van Dijk, who powered in a header after the break to give his side control.

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Keito Nakamura quickly responded for Japan, finishing low after finding space in the box, before Crysencio Summerville restored the lead with a curling strike into the bottom corner just after the hour mark.

Despite chances for both sides, it looked like the Netherlands would secure all three points.

Late Drama Saves Japan

Japan, however, refused to give up and found a late equaliser when Daichi Kamada scored in the 88th minute, with his effort deflecting past the goalkeeper from a chaotic corner situation.

The result ensures both teams start their World Cup campaigns with a point in what is expected to be a tightly contested Group F.

End-to-End Contest in Texas

The match was played in an air-conditioned stadium typically used for American football, with momentum swinging repeatedly between the two sides.

Netherlands created early chances through Donyell Malen and Cody Gakpo, while Japan’s supporters provided constant noise throughout the encounter.

Japan’s equaliser and overall resilience further strengthen their reputation as a dangerous side capable of progressing deep into the tournament.

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  • Toyibat Ajose

    Toyibat is a highly motivated Mass Communication major and results-oriented professional with a robust foundation in media, education, and communication. Leveraging years of hands-on experience in journalism, she has honed her ability to craft compelling narratives, conduct thorough research, and deliver accurate and engaging content that resonates with diverse audiences.

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