In an episodically thrilling opening Group F encounter in Arlington, Japan secured a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands. The match, held on a warm afternoon outside Dallas, saw Daichi Kamada score an 88th-minute equaliser, preventing the Dutch from taking an early lead in what is considered one of the tougher groups of the World Cup.
The game unfolded at the Dallas Stadium, described as a vast concrete structure. The stadium was full, contrasting with some discussions about potential format failures and empty seats in other venues. The atmosphere was vibrant, with the base colours of royal blue for Japan and deep orange for the Netherlands creating a visually engaging spectacle.
First Half Exchanges and Dutch Dominance
The Netherlands, under coach Ronald Koeman, began the match by controlling possession. Early on, Donyell Malen, who started in the centre of attack, had a significant opportunity in the third minute with a powerful shot that was saved by Zion Suzuki, Japan’s goalkeeper. Despite early pressure, the Dutch maintained a steady holding pattern of carefully metered possession.
Japan, coached by Hajime Moriyasu, displayed neat, high-pressing flurries. Moriyasu’s team, aiming to win the tournament, set up with attacking midfielders in wing-back positions and a back three, indicating an evolution in their strategy since Qatar. Frenkie de Jong was noted for his measured and stately play in midfield for the Netherlands.
Around 34 minutes into the game, Malen had another chance from a corner, but his close-in header was again saved by Suzuki. At this point, the Netherlands held 67% possession and had made twice as many passes, dictating the tempo and geometry of the game, though without much incision. Japan’s best chance before half-time came from a combination down the right flank, leading to a shot just wide from Keito Nakamura. Moments later, Ayase Ueda had a shot into the side netting after a well-placed pass.
Second Half Goals and Late Drama
The Netherlands broke the deadlock five minutes into the second half when Virgil van Dijk headed in a goal that trickled off the far post. Tsuyoshi Watanabe of Japan protested, claiming he was pushed, but the challenge appeared soft. Van Dijk celebrated by pointing to the name on his shirt in front of the Dutch fans.
Following the goal, Japan appeared to struggle, unable to sustain possession and largely confined to their own half. However, an immediate injection of urgency on the left flank led to their equaliser seven minutes later. A combination of passes resulted in Nakamura finding space to whip a right-foot shot into the corner, which took a deflection off Jan Paul van Hecke.
The game then became more dynamic, with space opening up at both ends. Crysencio Summerville restored the Netherlands’ lead in the 64th minute, taking the ball from Ryan Gravenberch, gliding inside, and curling a left-footed shot into the far corner. Gravenberch supplied two assists in the match, including this one for Summerville’s goal.
Japan responded to the second Dutch goal by regrouping and then surging forward again. The climax of the match came with high drama. Kamada’s deflected goal from a corner in the 88th minute secured the draw for Japan, leading to widespread celebrations from the Japanese bench. This result leaves Group F, which also includes Tunisia and Sweden, wide open.
Cody Gakpo also started for the Netherlands in this match. The Netherlands’ next fixture in the World Cup is scheduled for Saturday, June 20, when they will face Sweden in Houston.
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Source: theguardian.com
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