2026 World Cup: Japan Forces 2-2 Draw Against Netherlands With Late Kamada Goal

Japan salvaged a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their opening Group F match of the 2026 World Cup, thanks to a last-minute equalizer from Daichi Kamada. The Samurai Blue avoided defeat after a hard-fought contest at Dallas Stadium. The Netherlands had taken the lead twice through goals from Virgil van Dijk and Crysencio Summerville. Van Dijk opened the scoring in the 50th minute with a header from a Ryan Gravenberch corner. Japan quickly responded seven minutes later with Keito Nakamura leveling the score, converting a shot from Takefusa Kubo. The Dutch regained their advantage in the 64th minute when Summerville produced an individual effort, curling a shot past goalkeeper Zion Suzuki. However, Kamada's header in the 89th minute ensured Japan secured a point. This result leaves Group F wide open, with both the Netherlands and Japan starting with one point. Sweden and Tunisia have an opportunity to gain an advantage in their upcoming match.