Netherlands held 2-2 by Japan in World Cup opener

The Dutch led twice but conceded a late equaliser to leave their Group 6 campaign with just a point.

Staff Writer

June 15, 2026

Article summary

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Netherlands twice took the lead but were held to a 2-2 draw by Japan in their Group 6 opener at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Daichi Kamada's 88th-minute equaliser cancelled out Cresencio Summerville's second-half strike to leave both sides level on one point.

Key points

Netherlands led twice but finished level on 2-2
Kamada's 88th-minute goal denied the Dutch three points
Both teams take one point from Group 6 openers

Netherlands squandered a winning position twice on Sunday to draw 2-2 with Japan in their opening Group 6 match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Captain Virgil van Dijk put the Dutch ahead with a header in the 51st minute, only for Kaito Nakamura to level for Japan six minutes later. Cresencio Summerville restored the lead in the 64th minute, but Daichi Kamada struck in the 88th to deny the Netherlands all three points and send the match to a draw.

Both sides take one point from the opening round of fixtures in Group 6.