Japan and Netherlands Draw 2-2 in World Cup Opener
Japan twice came from behind to earn a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands on June 14 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Both teams opened their Group F campaigns without several injured players.
France 24Japan twice came from behind to draw the Netherlands 2-2 in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup on June 14 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The Netherlands took the lead in the 51st minute when Virgil van Dijk scored with a header from a cross by Ryan Gravenberch.
Japan equalized six minutes later as Keito Nakamura’s shot deflected off Jan Paul van Hecke and past goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
Crysencio Summerville restored the Dutch advantage in the 64th minute with a left-footed shot from the right wing after another pass from Gravenberch. Daichi Kamada headed the equalizing goal for Japan in the 88th minute from a corner kick delivered by Koki Ogawa. The match drew an attendance of 69,285 at the air-conditioned stadium normally used by the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys.
During a hydration break, Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders appeared on the overhead screen performing a routine. The Netherlands extended their unbeaten streak in World Cup group-stage matches to 16 with the result. Their all-time group-stage record now stands at 21 wins, 2 draws and 11 losses.
Japan entered the tournament ranked 18th by FIFA; the Netherlands were ranked eighth. Both teams played without several key players due to injury. Japan fans left the stands spotless after the match.
They stated it was “Japanese culture” to tidy up after themselves, AFP reported. The Netherlands will next face Sweden on June 20 in Houston. Japan will play Tunisia the same day in Monterrey, Mexico.
Sweden and Tunisia also met in Group F on June 14.
