Netherlands 2-2 Japan: D. Kamada equalizes in the 89th minute as the group opener ends level

In the first round of the 2026 World Cup group stage, the Netherlands drew 2-2 with Japan. There were no goals in the first half, so the match went into the break at 0-0.

After halftime, the score changed several times in quick succession. In the 51st minute, V. van Dijk scored from a Ryan Gravenberch assist to give the Netherlands a 1-0 lead. Six minutes later, in the 57th minute, Japan responded through K. Nakamura, with T. Kubo providing the assist, making it 1-1.

In the 61st minute, Crysencio Summerville was booked. He then scored in the 64th minute, again with Ryan Gravenberch supplying the assist, to put the Netherlands back in front at 2-1. Ryan Gravenberch therefore appeared in the scoring record with two assists, one in the 51st minute and another in the 64th.

Late in the match, Japan equalized in the 89th minute when D. Kamada scored, with K. Ogawa assisting, setting the final score at 2-2. For the Netherlands, Memphis Depay was shown a yellow card in the 83rd minute, and Micky van de Ven was booked in the 90+1st minute.

In the match statistics, the Netherlands had 60% possession to Japan's 40%. Expected goals were 0.78 for the Netherlands and 0.59 for Japan. Both teams recorded 10 shots, with the Netherlands putting 6 on target and Japan 3. Pass completion was 88% for the Netherlands and 84% for Japan. The Netherlands won 5 corners to Japan's 4, had 1 offside to Japan's 0, made 1 save to Japan's 4, and both teams committed 7 fouls.

Looking ahead to the next round, the Netherlands will face Sweden in the Group Stage - 2 on 2026-06-20 as the home team. The Netherlands are currently third in Group F with 1 point from 1 match, having won 0, drawn 1, and lost 0, with a goal difference of 0.

Japan will meet Tunisia in the Group Stage - 2 on 2026-06-21 as the away team. Japan are currently second in Group F with 1 point from 1 match, having won 0, drawn 1, and lost 0, with a goal difference of 0, and are currently in the official qualification zone for the Round of 32.