In their first match of the World Cup group stage, Japan staged a remarkable comeback to claim a point against a strong Netherlands side. Despite trailing by two goals, the blue-shirted squad refused to give up and were rewarded with a precious equalizer in the dying minutes.
The Netherlands took the lead early in the first half through a Memphis Depay strike. Early in the second half, they doubled their advantage with a goal from Cody Gakpo, putting Japan in a tough spot.
However, the Japanese players showed tremendous fighting spirit. In the 65th minute, Ritsu Doan pulled one back with a stunning long-range shot, making it 1-2. Just as the match seemed destined to end in defeat for Japan, Daichi Kamada was in the right place at the right time in the 88th minute to tap in from close range after a corner kick, sealing the 2-2 draw.
The result gives Japan their first point of the tournament, while the Netherlands will rue a missed opportunity for victory.
