Houston, Jun 15 (V7N)- Super-sub Daichi Kamada scored a dramatic last-minute equalizer as Asian powerhouses Japan fought back twice to snatch a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their FIFA World Cup Group E encounter on Sunday (June 14) night.
After a tense, goalless first half, the match exploded into life after the interval with all four goals coming in a breathless second period at the NRG Stadium.
The Dutch side, captained by Virgil van Dijk, dominated the early exchanges and came agonizingly close to breaking the deadlock in the 34th minute. Forward Donyell Malen connected perfectly with a powerful header from a corner kick, but Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki pulled off a stunning reflex save to deny the Oranje. Despite creating several scoring opportunities, the Dutch forwards repeatedly failed to breach a disciplined Japanese defense, leaving the teams tied 0-0 at the break.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 51st minute when Virgil van Dijk led from the front. The towering Dutch defender rose highest to meet a precise cross from the right flank, powering his header past Suzuki to make it 1-0.
Japan's response was swift. Just six minutes later, winger Keito Nakamura found space inside the box and slipped a clinical finish past the Dutch goalkeeper to level the score at 1-1.
The Netherlands restored their advantage in the 64th minute through Crysencio Summerville, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to fire the Dutch ahead 2-1.
With time running out and the Netherlands looking poised to take all three points, Japan launched a relentless final assault. In the dying moments of the match, Daichi Kamada found the back of the net to trigger wild celebrations, ensuring the Samurai Blue walked away with a crucial point.
Following the dramatic draw, both teams sit level in the Group E standings behind Germany, who thrashing Curacao 7-1 earlier in the day. Japan will next face Curacao, while the Netherlands prepare for a heavyweight clash against Germany.
END/SMA/AJ
