ARLINGTON, TEXAS, June 15, 2026 (WAFA) — Japan scored a late equalizer to earn a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their Group F clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Sunday, preserving their unbeaten record and moving to the top of the standings.

The Dutch dominated large stretches of the opening half, using their aerial advantage to pressure Japan, but were unable to find a breakthrough before the interval.

Captain Virgil van Dijk opened the scoring six minutes after the restart, heading home a precise cross from Ryan Gravenberch to give the Netherlands a deserved lead.

Japan responded quickly through Keito Nakamura, who leveled the match in the 57th minute with a well-placed strike from the edge of the penalty area.

The Netherlands restored their advantage seven minutes later when Crysencio Summerville cut across the top of the box and fired into the bottom corner to make it 2-1.

Japan increased the pressure in the closing stages as the Dutch retreated to protect their lead, and their persistence was rewarded in the 88th minute. Daichi Kamada delivered a cross that Koki Ogawa headed past the goalkeeper to secure a point for the Asian side.

The result leaves Japan at the summit of Group F, while the Netherlands remain second heading into the next round of matches.

K.T