Daichi Kamada diverted in an 89th-minute equaliser for Japan as they twice levelled to safe a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands on this Group F opener.
Crysencio Summerville had seemed to have gained it when curling the ball fantastically into the far nook along with his left foot however there was a twist within the story in Arlington in a contest that basically got here to life within the second half after an uninspired opening 45 minutes.
Virgil van Dijk headed Ronald Koeman’s facet in entrance from Ryan Gravenberch’s cross quickly after the interval however Keito Nakamura levelled issues up inside seven minutes when his shot deflected off the foot of Jan Paul Van Hecke and past Bart Verbruggen.
Summerville, who solely made his worldwide debut earlier this month, was on track to be the hero however Kento Shiogai’s header deflected off Kamada and Verbruggen may solely parry into his personal web. The Brighton goalkeeper ought to have carried out higher.
The identical could possibly be mentioned of the 2 groups in what was an entertaining recreation that each will search to be taught from. May Japan have been extra constructive from the outset? Ought to the Netherlands have pressed residence their benefit? Each will anticipate to enhance.
The important thing moments from Dallas…
- 3: Donyell Malen examined Zion Suzuki early on with a fierce shot.
- 51: GOAL! Virgil van Dijk expertly headed in a cross from Ryan Gravenberch.
- 57: GOAL! Keito Nakamura whipped the ball into the online through Jan Paul Van Hecke.
- 64: GOAL! Crysencio Summerville minimize in on his left foot and curled the ball in.
- 73: Zion Suzuki obtained down effectively to stop Cody Gakpo doubling the lead.
- 81: Nathan Ake comes on for Ryan Gravenberch in an try to guard the lead.
- 89: GOAL! Kento Shiogai’s header deflected in off teammate Daichi Kamada.
Evaluation: Mentality errors
Regardless of the lack of Kaoru Mitoma to damage, Japan are much-fancied at this World Cup having been in wonderful kind. They defeated Brazil in October after which beat England at Wembley in March. However they have been slightly lucky to get the purpose right here.
It felt as in the event that they wanted to fall behind to be prepared to exit and play, producing their finest work solely when the Netherlands have been main. Extra perception might be required if they’re to attain what many really feel they’re able to attaining at this match.
However there are classes for Koeman and his staff too after this. The Netherlands appeared in management previous to the choice to carry on a defender in Nathan Ake for a midfielder in Gravenberch within the 81st minute. It solely succeeded in inviting strain late on.
What the consequence means…
Pundit quotes
Sky Sports activities’ Roy Keane on ITV:
“I was more impressed with the Dutch tonight. Yes, they gave a couple of daft goals away and there were set pieces at the end. In the bigger picture, the Dutch looked decent but you cannot take anything away from Japan.
“I additionally give them credit score for hanging in there. They’ll each take the draw and transfer on. However the Dutch have been in management and I nonetheless suppose they are going to be extra of a menace within the latter levels [of the tournament] than Japan.”
