World Cup 2026: Japan satisfied with one point earned in opening match

In a game that only truly came alive in the second half, coach Hajime Moriyasu's side displayed impressive composure against a physically strong and experienced European opponent. Virgil van Dijk opened the scoring for the Netherlands with a precise header in the 51st minute, before Keito Nakamura brought Japan level just six minutes later. In the 64th minute, Crysencio Summerville put the Dutch ahead again with a beautiful curling shot, but the joy for the Oranje did not last until the end. In the 88th minute, Daichi Kamada redirected a powerful header from Koki Ogawa, leaving goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen helpless and sealing the 2-2 draw.

Although they could not secure a win in their opener, the "Blue Samurai" were generally satisfied with the single point earned after trailing twice. According to a reporter from Vietnam News Agency (TTXVN) in Tokyo, Coach Moriyasu praised the team's determination and unity, which enabled Japan to fight until the end and be rewarded with a crucial point, while looking ahead to securing three points in their next match.

Speaking after the match, goalkeeper Suzuki Zion also commended his teammates' resolve: "The fact that the whole team never gave up and managed to equalize is very positive. Securing one point will serve as a foundation for the next game."

Meanwhile, Ayase Ueda, a starter in this match, also considered earning a point a positive result. The Feyenoord striker reaffirmed his determination for the upcoming games: "There are still two group-stage matches left, so we will strive for good results and decide our path to the next round."

Keito Nakamura, who opened Japan's account in this tournament, also expressed confidence after what the team showed in their opening match on the world's biggest football stage: "Being able to come back twice after falling behind against a strong opponent, and earning a point in our first game, will give the whole team great confidence."

Therefore, the 2-2 draw against the Netherlands was not merely a single point on opening day, but also an important test of Japan's resilience at this World Cup. Facing a strong, experienced opponent with many individuals capable of deciding a match, Japan fell behind twice but remained composed enough to equalize late in the game. Although this match was not as perfect as hoped, Coach Moriyasu and his players were fully satisfied with the technical and mental qualities they displayed: they proved capable of standing firm against a top European team and reacting effectively in difficult moments.

In the remaining two group-stage matches, Japan will face Tunisia and Sweden respectively.