Japan fights back to draw 2-2 with Netherlands in World Cup qualifier

Japan fought back from behind to secure a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their opening 2026 World Cup qualifier. The Samurai Blue snatched a point with a dramatic late equalizer after twice trailing in the match.

The Netherlands, considered favorites, took the lead in the 51st minute when Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk headed home. However, Japan responded quickly, with Keito Nakamura leveling the score just six minutes later.

Ronald Koeman's side regained the advantage in the 64th minute through Crysencio Summerville's left-footed strike. Just as the Dutch seemed set for victory, Japan launched a furious assault in the final five minutes. Daichi Kamada's header in the closing moments secured a valuable point for the Japanese.

Both teams will play their next matches on June 20. The Netherlands will face Sweden in Houston, while Japan will play Tunisia in Guadalupe.

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Tenacidad y resiliencia, las dos virtudes el técnico japonés Hajime Moriyasu utilizó para describir a su equipo, fueron las que pusieron sobre el campo los Samuráis Azules para equilibrar en dos ocasiones su partido contra Países Bajos, quen creyó antes de tiempo que había asegurado los tres primeros puntos en el grupo F del Mundial.