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World Cup 2026: Japan snatches last-gasp draw against Netherlands

From La Presse · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Outcome reported
  • Japan secured a dramatic 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup Group F in Arlington, Texas.
  • Virgil van Dijk and Crysencio Summerville scored for the Netherlands, but Japan responded through Keito Nakamura and a late equalizer from Daichi Kamada.
  • The draw intensifies the competition in Group F, with both teams looking ahead to crucial upcoming matches against Tunisia and Sweden.

Japan salvaged a valuable 2-2 draw against the Netherlands on Sunday in Arlington, Texas, in their first match of the 2026 World Cup Group F. The Samurai Blue showed resilience, coming from behind twice to secure a point and keep their hopes alive in a group that also includes Tunisia.

The Samurai Blue showed resilience, coming from behind twice to secure a point and keep their hopes alive in a group that also includes Tunisia.

— La PresseSummary of Japan's performance.

After a quiet first half with few chances, the Netherlands took the lead shortly after the break. Captain Virgil van Dijk headed home a cross from Ryan Gravenberch in the 51st minute. Japan's response was swift, with Keito Nakamura equalizing six minutes later, finishing off a quick attacking move.

Captain Virgil van Dijk headed home a cross from Ryan Gravenberch in the 51st minute.

— La PresseDescription of the Netherlands' first goal.

The Dutch regained the lead in the 64th minute thanks to a superb strike from Crysencio Summerville. Just as the Netherlands seemed headed for a crucial victory, Japan's persistence paid off in the final moments. On a corner in the 88th minute, Koki Ogawa's header was ultimately deflected into the net by Daichi Kamada, earning his team a deserved point.

Keito Nakamura equalizing six minutes later, finishing off a quick attacking move.

— La PresseDescription of Japan's first goal.

This draw injects new life into the battle for Group F. Both teams now face decisive matches in the next round: the Netherlands will play Sweden, while Japan faces Tunisia in what is already shaping up to be a critical encounter for their tournament progression.

The Dutch regained the lead in the 64th minute thanks to a superb strike from Crysencio Summerville.

— La PresseDescription of the Netherlands' second goal.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by La Presse in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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