Giant-killer Japan come twice from behind to draw with Netherlands

Never write off Japan when they are a goal down. The Asian side once again showcased the fighting spirit that has made them one of world football's most dangerous underdogs, coming from behind twice to secure a thrilling 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their Group F clash at the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Dallas.

Japan were disciplined and organised throughout the first half. Although the Netherlands enjoyed more possession and looked the more threatening side, they found it difficult to break down Japan's compact defensive setup. The opening 45 minutes ended goalless, with the Japanese backline frustrating the Dutch attack at every turn.

The breakthrough finally arrived six minutes after the half-time.

The Netherlands won a free-kick near the edge of the penalty area. Tijjani Reijnders' delivery was poor and was partially cleared, allowing the Dutch to keep the attack alive. Ryan Gravenberch then chipped the ball back into the box, where captain Virgil van Dijk rose highest to head home and give the Dutch a 1-0 lead.

The goal was a landmark moment for Van Dijk, who became the Netherlands' second-highest-scoring defender with 13 international goals, just one behind current Dutch coach Ronald Koeman.

But the Dutch celebrations were short-lived.

Japan responded immediately by abandoning their conservative approach and pushing numbers forward. Their reward came in the 57th minute when Keito Nakamura unleashed a long-range effort that beat the goalkeeper and restored parity.

The equaliser rekindled memories of Japan's stunning victories over Germany and Spain at the 2022 World Cup and served as another reminder of their ability to trouble football's elite.

However, the Netherlands regained the lead when Crysencio Summerville struck from distance to make it 2-1.

Rather than retreat, Japan intensified their attacking efforts. Wave after wave of attacks tested the Dutch defence as the Asian side searched desperately for another equaliser.

Their persistence paid off in dramatic fashion.

With the match seemingly slipping away, Daichi Kamada struck in the 89th minute to make it 2-2 and spark celebrations among the Japanese supporters.

And for the Netherlands, who were better on the pitch today, securing better results int he next two games could only give them hopes of advancing.

The Dutch are among the most successful nations never to have won the World Cup. They have reached the final three times, only to fall at the last hurdle on each occasion, most recently in 2010 when they were beaten by Spain.

This was the fourth meeting between the two nations. The Netherlands have won two of the previous encounters, while the other ended in a draw.

For the Netherlands, the tournament marks the second spell in charge for coach Ronald Koeman. After guiding the Dutch back to a major tournament by securing qualification for Euro 2020 following failures to reach Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup, Koeman left to take charge of FC Barcelona.