 |
In the early hours of June 15th, Japan once again demonstrated why they are always considered the leading force in Asian football by bravely fighting to earn a point against the Netherlands in an emotional 2-2 draw in Group F of the 2026 World Cup. |
 |
At Dallas Stadium, the Netherlands were considered the favorites thanks to their quality players and extensive experience in major tournaments. Coach Ronald Koeman's team quickly demonstrated their dominance with a resounding victory right from the opening whistle. |
 |
"The Orange Tornado" continuously controlled the ball and pushed Japan into a defensive position. In the 3rd minute, Donyell Malen rattled the Asian defense with a dangerous close-range shot, but goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made an excellent save. |
 |
Despite facing considerable pressure, Japan maintained discipline in their play. Their tightly organized defense allowed the team from the Land of the Rising Sun to withstand the relentless attacks of their opponents. The first half ended goalless, but Japan's performance showed they were by no means inferior in spirit and character. |
 |
At the start of the second half, the Netherlands finally found the opening goal. In the 50th minute, from a precise cross by Ryan Gravenberch, captain Virgil van Dijk rose high to head the ball into the net, giving the European side the lead. |
 |
However, Japan didn't take long to respond. Just 7 minutes later, Takefusa Kubo delivered a perfect pass to Keito Nakamura, who took a shot. The ball deflected off a Dutch defender, changing direction and leaving goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen completely helpless, bringing the game back to a tie. |
 |
The equalizer boosted the Asian team's morale, but at that moment, the Netherlands showed their sharpness. In the 64th minute, Gravenberch completed his double assist by passing the ball to Crysencio Summerville, who skillfully controlled it before curling a beautiful shot to make it 2-1. |
 |
It seemed as though victory was within the Netherlands' grasp when coach Koeman proactively reinforced the defense to preserve their advantage. However, the decision to drop deep allowed Japan to increase the pressure in the final minutes. |
 |
The tireless efforts of the Asian team were rewarded in the 89th minute. From a corner kick by Junya Ito, Koki Ogawa headed the ball strategically to Daichi Kamada, who rushed in to finish from close range, securing a 2-2 draw to the ecstatic cheers of the Japanese fans. |
 |
The result left the Netherlands disappointed, as they twice took the lead but couldn't hold on to victory. Meanwhile, Japan continued to assert their position as a formidable force in Asia. The team from the Land of the Rising Sun played with confidence and resilience, and deservedly earned a valuable point. |
Source: https://znews.vn/nhat-ban-qua-hay-post1659737.html
![[Photo] General Secretary and President To Lam attends the 13th National Congress of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union](https://vphoto.vietnam.vn/thumb/1200x675/vietnam/resource/IMAGE/2026/06/25/1782356968989_ndo_br_1-jpg.webp)
![[Photo] General Secretary and President To Lam attends the Central Public Security Party Committee Conference](https://vphoto.vietnam.vn/thumb/1200x675/vietnam/resource/IMAGE/2026/06/24/1782302063612_a1-bnd-9302-9166-jpg.webp)
