Daichi Kamada's goal gives Japan a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in World Cup
AP News • • sports
Key Points:
- Japan secured a dramatic 2-2 draw against the higher-ranked Netherlands in their World Cup opener, with Daichi Kamada scoring a late equalizer in the 88th minute after a header from Koki Ogawa deflected off his head.
- The match featured a flurry of goals in the second half, including strikes from Dutch players Virgil Van Dijk and Crysencio Summerville, as well as Japan's Keito Nakamura.
- The draw extends the Netherlands' unbeaten streak in World Cup group play to 17 games but leaves pressure on coach Ronald Koeman as the team aims to advance from Group F.
- Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu praised his team's patience and tenacity, highlighting their potential to reach the round of 16 for the fifth time if they maintain momentum.
- The Netherlands will face Sweden next, while Japan will play Tunisia, both matches scheduled for Saturday in Texas and Mexico respectively.
