Ogawa snatches late point for Japan in 2-2 draw against Netherlands

A breathless second-half goal fest at Dallas Stadium saw the Netherlands and Japan share the spoils in a thrilling 2-2 draw to kick off their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group F campaigns.

After a cagey, scoreless first half, the match exploded into life after the interval. Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk broke the deadlock in the 51st minute, rising high to head home a brilliant cross from Ryan Gravenberch. Japan answered back just six minutes later when Keito Nakamura cut inside and unleashed a low, fizzing strike to equalize.

The Oranje seemingly restored order in the 64th minute through a moment of individual magic from Crysencio Summerville, who cut onto his left foot and curled a spectacular effort into the top corner.

However, the Samurai Blue refused to back down. Japan's relentless late pressure finally paid off in the 88th minute when substitute Koki Ogawa capitalized on a defensive lapse to smash home a dramatic equalizer, securing a well-deserved point for both sides in a classic World Cup opener.