Japan came from behind twice to earn a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in their opening World Cup match, with Daichi Kamada’s 88th-minute header rescuing a point in Dallas.
The Netherlands took the lead in the 51st minute when Virgil van Dijk headed home to make it 1-0. Japan responded six minutes later through Keito Nakamura, who levelled the score at 1-1 in the 57th minute.
The Dutch regained the advantage in the 64th minute when Crysencio Summerville curled a superb strike into the net for a 2-1 lead. However, Japan struck again with two minutes remaining as Kamada headed in the equaliser to make it 2-2.
The Netherlands controlled possession throughout the game and held a slight edge in expected goals. Both teams registered 10 shots, but the Dutch were more accurate, recording six shots on target to Japan’s three.
Despite spending less time on the ball and producing fewer efforts on target, Japan capitalised on their key opportunities and left with a valuable point, while the Netherlands were unable to turn their possession advantage into victory.
A draw gives each team one point, so neither gains an early advantage in the group. Their exact positions would depend on the result of the other group match.
Oluwagbemisola Babalola
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