Japan, Asia's most successful national team, twice fought back to hold the Netherlands to a 2-2 draw in their World Cup Group F opener, played before 69,285 spectators in Texas.
The first half was relatively uneventful, but the match exploded into life after the break. Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk opened the scoring with a fine header, but Keito Nakamura quickly equalised. However, minutes later, Crysencio Summerville curled a shot into the far corner to restore the Dutch lead.
Just when it seemed the Netherlands would hold on, Japan struck back in the closing stages. Crystal Palace midfielder Daichi Kamada was credited with the goal after the ball ricocheted from a corner kick.
Both Japan and the Netherlands were missing key players through injury, but the match was still regarded as one of the most compelling in the group stage. Both sides are considered dark horses capable of deep runs – the Netherlands have finished runners-up three times, while Japan have never advanced beyond the round of 16.
The match was played in a retractable-roof, air-conditioned stadium that is home to the Dallas Cowboys American football team. During the half-time break, fans were treated to a performance by an NFL cheerleading squad on the big screen.
Later on, Sweden face Tunisia in the other Group F fixture, which promises further drama.
