Japan vs. Netherlands FIFA World Cup match result: 88th-minute heroes from Kamada rescue Japan in dramatic draw against Netherlands

Japan celebrates a goal during the World Cup Group F match against the Netherlands. (AP photo) A towering late header from Daichi Kamada denied the Netherlands victory and sent the Samurai Blue faithful into a frenzy as Japan grabbed a dramatic 2-2 draw at AT&T Stadium in Texas on Sunday.With defeat looming, Japan produced the final twist in a pulsating contest when Koki Ogawa’s corner found Kamada in the 88th minute, whose header took a slight deflection before curling past Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen. The equalizer capped off a remarkable comeback and ensured both sides started their Group F campaign with a point.

Kamada’s late strike stuns Dutch fans

The Netherlands, unbeaten in 17 World Cup group stage matches, looked destined to continue this run of maximum points after twice taking the lead in an entertaining second half.After a brutal opening 45 minutes, Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk broke the deadlock in the 50th minute. Ryan Gravenberch’s cross found the towering defender, who stooped to head into the far corner for his 13th international goal.Japan responded quickly. Seven minutes later, Takefusa Kubo slipped a clever pass to Keito Nakamura, who turned superbly and fired a shot past Verbruggen to equalise.The Dutch regained control in the 64th minute when Crysencio Summerville received a pass from Gravenberch and drilled his left foot into the bottom corner. The eighth team appeared on their way to victory before Kamada’s late strike spoiled the celebrations.

Fireworks in the second half after a quiet start

The first half offered few clear cut opportunities despite the Netherlands dominating possession. Donyell Malen tested Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki early on as Japan struggled to convert promising set pieces.The game came to life after the break, scoring three goals in 14 minutes and changing the atmosphere at the Dallas venue, where supporters from both countries created a lively backdrop.The Netherlands enjoyed nearly 60 percent of possession and managed six shots on goal compared to Japan’s three. However, Samurai Blue once again proved their resilience and ability to strike when it mattered most.

Group F battle wide open

The draw leaves both teams with one point to advance to their second group.The Netherlands face Sweden in Houston next Saturday to continue their quest for a first World Cup title, while 18th-ranked Japan travel to Monterrey, Mexico, to face Tunisia.