Netherlands and Japan Draw 2-2 in FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier

The Netherlands were unable to maintain a two-goal lead twice and ended in a 2-2 draw against Japan in a FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying match. The game, held at Dallas Stadium, saw both teams share points after a thrilling encounter.

In the second half, Virgil van Dijk and Cresencio Summerhill scored for the Netherlands, giving them two opportunities to lead. However, Japan’s Keito Nakamura and Daichi Kamada came back with goals to level the score, ensuring the match ended evenly.

The match took place on June 15 in Kathmandu. Although the first half ended goalless, all four goals were scored after the break. Van Dijk opened the scoring in the 50th minute with a header, putting the Netherlands ahead. Seven minutes later, Keito Nakamura equalized for Japan. Then, in the 64th minute, Cresencio Summerhill restored the Netherlands’ lead with a goal. Finally, in the 89th minute, Daichi Kamada headed in a corner to level the match again. With no further goals, both teams shared the points.