Akpeyi hails Japan keeper Suzuki after Dutch draw

Daniel Akpeyi, a former Super Eagles goalkeeper, lauded Japan's Zion Suzuki for his standout performance during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group F match against the Netherlands. Japan secured a 2-2 draw in their opening game at Dallas Stadium.

Akpeyi highlighted Suzuki's concentration and strong hands, stating his display vindicated the coaching staff's choice to start him over more experienced goalkeepers. "So far, he has been alert and waiting to see the loose balls with strong hands as well. It tells that he has been able to keep his team in the game," Akpeyi commented during halftime analysis on SuperSport.

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I want to give credit to the goalkeeper. This tells why he was chosen in goal ahead of the older ones on the bench because he has been able to concentrate on the game.

The 23-year-old goalkeeper, of Ghanaian and Japanese heritage, was instrumental in Japan's resilience, making four crucial saves. His early stop from Donyell Malen set the tone for a match where Japan twice equalized to earn a point. Goals from Keito Nakamura and Daichi Kamada secured the draw for Japan, while Virgil van Dijk and Crysencio Summerville scored for the Netherlands.

In contrast, Netherlands' goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen had a difficult outing, receiving a low rating after an error led to Japan's late equalizer. The match concluded with Group F evenly poised, with Japan positioned second behind Sweden following the initial fixtures.

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So far, he has been alert and waiting to see the loose balls with strong hands as well. It tells that he has been able to keep his team in the game.