Japan Salvages 2-2 Draw With Netherlands on 88th-Minute World Cup Equalizer

Q: After Japan’s dramatic comeback, are the favored Netherlands now facing a shock exit from the World Cup’s 'Group of Death'?

No—the Netherlands are under pressure, but a shock exit is far from inevitable. Japan’s 2-2 comeback in Arlington has made Group F far more volatile, and it reinforced why Japan were widely viewed as a dangerous outsider rather than a routine underdog. Hajime Moriyasu’s side came in on a strong run, with recent high-profile wins and a proven record of upsetting elite teams, and they showed that again by twice responding after falling behind before Daichi Kamada’s late equalizer. For the Dutch, the draw is a setback because they were expected to take control of the group. They had long spells of possession, led twice through Virgil van Dijk and Crysencio Summerville, and still failed to close the match out. That will sharpen existing questions about consistency under Ronald Koeman and whether the Netherlands can turn territorial dominance into reliable results against disciplined, aggressive opponents. Even so, one draw does not put them on the brink. Group F also includes Sweden and Tunisia, so qualification remains very much in Dutch hands. The expanded 2026 World Cup format also makes an immediate “shock exit” less likely than in past tournaments, even if this group is one of the tougher ones. What has changed is the margin for error. Japan have shown they are genuine contenders to advance, and the Netherlands can no longer assume superiority. If the Dutch drop more points against Sweden or Tunisia, then talk of an early exit will become much more serious.

3 articles · Updated · Al Jazeera English · Jun 15

Daichi Kamada’s 88th-minute goal earned Japan a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands after Hajime Moriyasu’s side came from behind twice in their Group F opener in Texas.
Virgil van Dijk put the Dutch ahead in the 51st minute and Crysencio Summerville restored their lead on 64 minutes, but Keito Nakamura had already canceled the first deficit within six minutes.
Japan’s late leveller came from a corner after both teams made changes and traded chances, denying Ronald Koeman’s side a win in front of 69,285 spectators at the Dallas Cowboys’ stadium.
The result leaves Group F finely balanced at the start of the tournament, with Sweden due to face Tunisia later Sunday.