Japan opened their World Cup campaign with a thrilling 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in Texas. The match, attended by 69,285 fans, saw Japan equalize in the 88th minute. The first half was quiet, but the second half sparked to life. Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk scored with a header to give his team the lead, only for Keito Nakamura to quickly level the score. Crysencio Summerville restored the Dutch lead, but Japan fought back again with Daichi Kamada's goal credited after a deflection in the dying moments. Both teams were missing key players in North America, but this match was one of the highlights of the group stage. Japan has never advanced beyond the Round of 16 in World Cup history, making this result a hopeful sign for their campaign.