Japan's Late Equalizer Forces 2-2 Draw with Netherlands in World Cup Opener
Published June 14, 2026
Japan came from behind twice to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their opening Group F fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a crucial equalizer arriving in the final minute of regulation time.
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The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off with an exhilarating Group F encounter in Arlington, Texas, as Japan battled back to earn a hard-fought 2-2 draw against the Netherlands. The match, played under the roof of the AT&T Stadium, saw both sides share the spoils after a late Japanese equalizer denied the Oranje an opening victory in their quest for World Cup glory.
After a cagey first half that yielded no goals, the game burst into life shortly after the interval. The Netherlands, led by coach Ronald Koeman, took the lead when captain Virgil van Dijk powerfully headed home from a well-placed cross by Ryan Gravenberch in the 51st minute. However, Japan quickly responded, with Keito Nakamura finding the back of the net to level the score and ensure the Dutch advantage was short-lived.
The Netherlands regained the lead with just 25 minutes remaining, thanks to a superb strike from Crysencio Summerville. The winger, making only his third senior appearance for his country, cut inside from the right flank before curling a shot in off the post. As the clock wound down, it appeared the 2010 finalists were set to claim all three points. However, Hajime Moriyasu's Japanese squad showed resilience, and in the 90th minute, substitute Koki Ogawa rose highest to nod in the equalizer, securing a valuable point for his nation in a thrilling start to their World Cup 2026 campaign.