World Cup 2026: Netherlands and Japan draw 2-2 after last-gasp header
The Netherlands and Japan played out a dramatic 2-2 draw in the Group of Death, with Daichi Kamada scoring a late header to snatch a point for the Samurai Blue.
The Netherlands and Japan ended their Group of Death encounter in a thrilling 2-2 draw on Sunday at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The match saw two lead changes and a last-minute equalizer.
Virgil van Dijk opened the scoring for the Netherlands with a clinical header from Gravenberch's cross. Japan responded quickly through Keito Nakamura's goal. In the second half, Crysencio Summerville restored the Dutch advantage, and Ronald Koeman's side seemed to have secured the win with resolute defending.
However, deep into stoppage time, Koki Ogawa's corner found Daichi Kamada, whose glancing header flew into the net, sparking wild celebrations from Japanese supporters and earning his team an unexpected point. The result leaves Group F wide open.
