TEXAS: A late equalizer from Daichi Kamada saw Japan secure a dramatic 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their opening match of the FIFA World Cup. Playing on Sunday at a packed, 69,285-capacity air-conditioned stadium in Texas, Japan showcased immense resilience, twice bouncing back from a goal down to steal a crucial point.

Following a cagey, goalless first half, the match exploded into life during a highly competitive second half. The Netherlands broke the deadlock in the 51st minute when captain Virgil van Dijk netted a superb header from a Ryan Gravenberch assist. However, the Dutch lead lasted just six minutes; Japan’s Keito Nakamura skillfully bypassed a defender in the 57th minute to slot the ball into the back of the net, leveling the score at 1-1.

The Dutch side reclaimed the advantage in the 64th minute when Crysencio Summerville curled a brilliant strike from the corner of the penalty box to make it 2-1. Just as the three-time World Cup runners-up seemed destined for victory, midfielder Daichi Kamada turned a corner kick into a goal in the 88th minute, rescuing Japan from defeat. With this result, Japan—a side that has never advanced past the Round of 16—earned a historic draw, while Group F action continues later with Sweden taking on Tunisia.