Japan produced another impressive display against European opposition as they twice came from behind to secure a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group F opener.
The result extended the Blue Samurai’s remarkable unbeaten run to eight matches (W6, D2) and strengthened their reputation as one of the tournament’s potential dark horses, while the Netherlands were left frustrated after twice surrendering the lead.
The Oranje entered the contest with a strong World Cup record of starting fast, but they faced a Japan side full of confidence after recent victories over several European heavyweights.
Ronald Koeman’s team looked to impose themselves early, with Donyell Malen forcing Zion Suzuki into a fine save after being played through by Cody Gakpo.
Japan responded with danger of their own, as Shōgo Taniguchi surged forward before finding Daizen Maeda, only for Jan Paul van Hecke to make a crucial challenge.
The match developed into a cautious tactical battle, with the Netherlands gradually gaining control and creating the better opportunities.
Tijjani Reijnders’ delivery from a corner found Malen, whose header was pushed away by Suzuki, before Micky van de Ven headed over from another dangerous set-piece.
Japan grew into the contest late in the first half, with Keito Nakamura and Ayase Ueda both going close before the break, but neither could find the target as the teams headed into half-time level.
The breakthrough finally arrived six minutes after the restart.
After Reijnders’ free-kick was initially cleared, the ball eventually fell to Ryan Gravenberch, who produced a superb cross for Liverpool teammate Virgil van Dijk. The Dutch captain rose highest and powered a header into the net via the post to put the Netherlands ahead.
However, Japan’s response was immediate.
Just six minutes later, Takefusa Kubo created the opening for Nakamura, who controlled the ball before firing a low strike that took a deflection and beat Bart Verbruggen at his near post to restore parity.
The second half then became an end-to-end affair, and the Netherlands regained the advantage through a moment of individual quality.
Crysencio Summerville marked his first major tournament appearance in style, cutting inside before curling a brilliant left-footed strike into the far corner.
Japan refused to accept defeat and continued searching for another equaliser, with Kubo narrowly missing the target with a powerful long-range effort.
Their persistence was rewarded late on, when, with just one minute of normal time remaining, Junya Ito delivered a dangerous corner into the box, and Kōki Ogawa’s header struck Daichi Kamada before flying beyond Verbruggen to complete another dramatic comeback.
The final whistle confirmed an entertaining draw that highlighted Japan’s resilience and attacking threat, while the Netherlands were left disappointed after twice allowing their advantage to slip away.
The result extended the Oranje’s unbeaten run in World Cup group-stage matches to 17 games (W12, D5), but Koeman’s side will feel they missed an opportunity to begin with a victory.
The Netherlands will next face Sweden on Saturday at 8 pm, while Japan will continue their campaign against Tunisia on Sunday at 7 am, carrying confidence from another impressive performance on the world stage.
