The World Cup continued to produce the unexpected in Arlington, Texas, as the Netherlands and Japan played out an episodically thrilling opening Group F game. Daichi Kamada scored an 88th-minute equaliser to make it 2-2, just as the Dutch looked like taking an early hold on one of the tougher groups.
A Thrilling Encounter in the Heat
On a throbbingly hot afternoon in the low flat plains outside Dallas, both teams delivered a captivating performance. The match swung back and forth, with Japan showing resilience to snatch a point at the death.
Kamada's Late Heroics
As the entire bib-clad Japanese bench emptied onto the pitch to celebrate Kamada's deflected goal from a corner, it was tempting to wonder if perhaps the unthinkable is happening here. Sport does like to spring surprises, and this match was no exception.
World Cup Defying Expectations
There has been so much talk of tired players, format failure, and empty seats—though the stadium was full here. Such talk has been so feverishly committed that one might wonder if it was necessary to play the games at all. But the opening games suggest something else is taking place. Maybe—whisper it—the World Cup is actually good.
Fortune favoured Kamada as Japan rescued a World Cup draw with the Netherlands in a match that will be remembered for its drama and excitement.
