Japan Stun the Dutch: Late Kamada Earns a 2-2 Thriller

Updated 17 June 2026.

Netherlands vs Japan at World Cup 2026 finished 2-2, with Japan twice coming from behind and Daichi Kamada striking late to earn a deserved point at AT&T Stadium. Virgil van Dijk and Crysencio Summerville put the Dutch ahead each time, but Japan refused to fold, Keito Nakamura and Kamada hauling them level in a thrilling Group F opener.

How Japan fought back twice

The Netherlands led twice and could not hold on either time. Virgil van Dijk headed the Dutch in front on 50 minutes, but Keito Nakamura levelled within seven. Crysencio Summerville restored the lead on 64, only for Japan to strike again, Daichi Kamada finishing on 88 minutes to make it 2-2.

It was a statement from a Japan side many fancy as genuine dark horses. Quick, brave and relentless, they matched one of the tournament favourites blow for blow and arguably deserved more than a draw.

What it means for Group F

The draw left the Netherlands and Japan level on a point, both behind Sweden, who hammered Tunisia 5-1 on the same day to lead Group F on goal difference. The Dutch have work to do; Japan have belief. Track the group on our standings page.

What is next

Both sides return to Group F action, with kick-offs on our fixtures page and goals live on live scores. See the day’s full rundown in our World Cup 2026 June 14 round-up and the complete World Cup 2026 guide.

Frequently asked questions

What was the score in Netherlands vs Japan?

The Netherlands drew 2-2 with Japan in their World Cup 2026 Group F opener on 14 June at AT&T Stadium. Van Dijk and Summerville scored for the Dutch; Nakamura and Kamada replied for Japan.

Who scored Japan’s late equaliser?

Daichi Kamada scored Japan’s late equaliser on 88 minutes to make it 2-2, after Keito Nakamura had earlier cancelled out Virgil van Dijk’s opener.

Source: 2026 FIFA World Cup Group F.