Japan scored a late equalizer to salvage a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in their group opener at the men’s soccer World Cup.
Japan’s squad, 18th in the world ranking, took on the top-tier team on Sunday at Dallas Stadium in the southern US state of Texas.
The Dutch, ranked eighth, have finished runner-up three times in past World Cup tournaments, while Japan’s squad is said to be the strongest ever in its history, and is aiming to win the title.
Japan was put under constant pressure from the outset, with Donyell Malen threatening to score. But goalkeeper Suzuki Zion made a brilliant save, and the first half ended in the goalless draw.
In the 51st minute, Japan fell behind after the Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk scored on a header. But six minutes later, Nakamura Keito tied the game with a right-footed strike from outside the penalty area.
Japan then allowed the Netherlands to take the lead again in the 64th minute, when forward Crysencio Summerville netted a goal with a close-range shot.
But Japan equalized in the 89th minute. A corner kick was met by substitute Ogawa Koki’s header, which deflected in off Kamada Daichi to earn a 2-2 draw.
Japan failed to start the tournament with a win for a third consecutive World Cup. But the squad showed its resilience. The team came from behind twice against the Netherlands to secure a point with the draw.
Japan will face Tunisia, 45th in the rankings, in the second group stage match on Saturday.