World Cup 2026: Netherlands and Japan share thrilling four-goal draw in Group F opener

The Netherlands and Japan began their 2026 World Cup campaigns with an entertaining 2-2 draw on Sunday, as a dramatic second half saw both teams exchange goals in a captivating Group F contest.

After a cautious opening 45 minutes produced no goals, the match burst into life after the interval, delivering four strikes and a late equaliser that ensured the points were shared.

The result leaves both nations with one point from their opening group-stage fixture, with neither side able to secure a decisive advantage despite twice seeing momentum swing in their favour.

Cautious first half ends goalless

The opening stages were characterised by discipline and defensive organisation from both teams.

Neither the Netherlands nor Japan appeared willing to take unnecessary risks, aware of the importance of avoiding defeat in the first match of the tournament.

While there were occasional moments of promise in attack, clear-cut chances remained limited as both defences held firm.

The Oranje attempted to control possession and dictate the tempo, while Japan relied on their organisation and quick transitions whenever opportunities emerged.

Despite the efforts of both sides, neither team found the breakthrough before half-time, and the players headed to the dressing rooms with the score still locked at 0-0.

Van Dijk opens scoring after restart

The match changed dramatically after the interval.

The Netherlands finally broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute through captain Virgil van Dijk.

The defender finished a move created by Ryan Gravenberch to give the Dutch a deserved lead and seemingly place his side in control of proceedings.

The advantage, however, lasted only a matter of minutes.

Japan responded almost immediately through Keito Nakamura, who restored parity in the 57th minute with a composed finish that left the Dutch goalkeeper with little chance.

The goal transformed the atmosphere of the contest and set the stage for a thrilling final half-hour.

Gravenberch inspires Dutch attack

Ryan Gravenberch continued to influence the match and played a decisive role once again in the 64th minute.

Having already provided the assist for the opening goal, the midfielder delivered another key pass, this time setting up Crysencio Summerville.

The forward made no mistake, restoring the Netherlands’ lead and putting the Oranje 2-1 ahead.

At that stage, the Dutch appeared well positioned to claim all three points and begin their World Cup journey with victory.

Kamada rescues point for Japan

Japan, however, refused to accept defeat.

The Blue Samurai continued to push forward in search of another equaliser and maintained their attacking intent deep into the closing stages.

Their persistence was rewarded in the 88th minute when Daichi Kamada found the net to level the score at 2-2.

The late strike ensured Japan would leave with a point and denied the Netherlands what had seemed an increasingly likely victory.

Both teams earn valuable opening point

Neither side was able to find a winner in the remaining minutes, leaving the score unchanged at the final whistle.

While the first half offered limited excitement, the second period provided everything supporters could have hoped for, with attacking football, momentum shifts and late drama.

The result means the Netherlands and Japan each begin their Group F campaigns with one point.

Although both teams may feel they had opportunities to win, the draw reflected a closely contested encounter between two sides determined to make a strong start at the World Cup.