Japan fight back twice to earn 2-2 draw with Netherlands

Japan produced a spirited comeback to hold Netherlands to a thrilling 2-2 draw in their opening Group F match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Dallas.
After a cagey first half, the contest exploded into life after the break. Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk broke the deadlock in the 51st minute, powering home a header from a cross by Ryan Gravenberch.
Japan responded almost immediately through Keito Nakamura, whose low strike beat goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen to restore parity six minutes later.
The Dutch regained the advantage in the 64th minute when Crysencio Summerville produced a superb finish after cutting inside the penalty area and firing beyond Japan’s goalkeeper.
However, J...