Japan and the Netherlands played out a dramatic 2-2 draw in their 2026 World Cup Group F opener, with a late equaliser denying the Dutch victory.
The match, played in Texas in front of 69,285 fans, saw the Netherlands take the lead through captain Virgil van Dijk, who headed home after a pinpoint cross from Ryan Gravenberch.
Japan responded swiftly, with Keito Nakamura levelling the score before the Netherlands regained control through a fine curled finish from Crysencio Summerville.
The Dutch looked set for victory until late pressure from Japan paid off. A corner caused chaos in the box, and a deflected effort saw Daichi Kamada credited with the 88th-minute equaliser.
Both sides created further chances in a lively second half, with the Netherlands managed by Ronald Koeman and Japan led by Hajime Moriyasu.
The result leaves both teams level in Group F after one of the more competitive opening fixtures of the tournament.