Netherlands lets lead slip, draws 2-2 with Japan in World Cup opener

The Netherlands conceded a late equalizer, drawing 2-2 with Japan in their first match of the Football World Cup. Captain Virgil van Dijk and Cysencio Summerville were the Dutch goal scorers in an energetic game.

The Dutch team started stronger, with Donyell Malen having the first significant chance. However, they failed to convert their dominance into more clear-cut opportunities before halftime, and Japan even created two chances just before the break.

The second half saw the match ignite. Van Dijk opened the scoring with a well-placed header. Japan responded within ten minutes, as Nakamura found space and scored past a surprised Verbruggen. Six minutes later, Cysensio Summerville put the Netherlands back in front with a curling shot into the corner.

Despite further chances for the Dutch, including one for Gakpo, Japan grew more threatening. Even with defensive substitutions made by coach Koeman, Japan managed to score the equalizer a minute before regular time concluded. Substitute Ogawa headed home the 2-2 goal.