If you thought the World Cup match on Sunday between the Netherlands and Japan felt more intense than just a group stage opener, you’re not alone. The latest FIFA rankings place the Netherlands at 8th and Japan at 18th, so there’s a bit of a competitive edge.
They clashed at the House That Jerry Built, kicking off their campaigns in Group F for the 2026 World Cup.
In the end, the match finished in a draw, both teams netting two goals. However, saying it was just a 2-2 tie really doesn’t capture the excitement of the game.
Here’s a recap of the goals from that thrilling match between Japan and the Netherlands.
Virgil van Dijk scores the first goal
During the first half, opportunities arose for both sides, but neither could find the back of the net, leaving the score at 0.
Then, in the 51st minute, Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk opened the scoring with a header, marking the Netherlands’ first goal of the tournament.
This goal was set up by a brilliant cross from Ryan Gravenbirch, who delivered a lovely ball into the box.
The Netherlands took an early lead, but that was only the beginning.
Keito Nakamura equalizes for Japan
Crowd excitement was still echoing from Van Dijk’s goal when Keito Nakamura found the net with a right-footed shot from just outside the box, leveling the score for Japan.
That equalizer came in the 57th minute, tying it up at 1-1.
Crisencio Somerville scores his first international goal
If there’s an ideal moment to score your first international goal, it’s definitely at the World Cup.
That’s precisely what Crisencio Somerville accomplished shortly thereafter.
In the 64th minute, he received a pass from Grafenwerch, cut inside, and unleashed a fantastic left-footed strike that flew past diving keeper Zion Suzuki.
The Netherlands found themselves back in the lead.
Daichi Kamata nets the equalizer just before time runs out
The game held at 2-1 until late drama unfolded.
In the 88th minute, Japan earned a corner. Junya Ito took a perfect corner kick that Koki Ogawa initially met with his head, but the shot was deflected by Verbruggen right to Daichi Kamata.
Right place, right time for Kamata—truly an example of scoring from any angle.
The Netherlands attempted to add another goal during stoppage time but couldn’t convert. The match concluded as energetically as it began, both teams finishing with equal points.
What’s next for these two teams? On Saturday, June 20th, the Netherlands will face Sweden while Japan will go up against Tunisia.
