Japan and Netherlands finish 2‑2 in World Cup 2026 opening match
On 14 June 2026, Japan and the Netherlands played the Group F opener of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas (United States). Four goals were scored in the second half: Virgil van Dijk gave the Dutch the lead at 51 minutes, Keito Nakamura equalised for Japan six minutes later, Crysencio Summerville restored the Dutch advantage at 64 minutes and Daichi Kamada headed the final equaliser in the 89th minute. The match ended 2‑2, awarding each side one point in the group.
Both teams will next face new opponents: the Netherlands play Sweden in Houston on 20 June, while Japan travel to Monterrey to meet Tunisia on 21 June. The game was noted for its intensity, the late surge of goals, and the disciplined conduct of Japanese supporters who helped clean the stadium after the final whistle.