Japan's stunning 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in the World Cup has been hailed as the tournament's best match so far, and for good reason. The game was a clash of styles, with Japan's approach closer to the Netherlands' famous total football than the current iteration led by Ronald Koeman. This match was a breath of fresh air, with both teams equally capable of playing with or without the ball, switching dominance throughout. The result felt genuinely in the balance, and the late equaliser from Japan ensured it was the best match of the World Cup so far.
One of the key talking points was Virgil van Dijk's importance to the Netherlands. The Liverpool captain has been at the heart of the Netherlands' defence since 2015, but his time with the Oranje has coincided with a difficult decade for the national team. Despite criticism for his club form not always translating to the national side, Van Dijk's consistency and eye for goal in big moments cannot be overlooked. In what is likely his final World Cup, he scored his first international major tournament goal, nodding home a cross from Ryan Gravenberch.
Japan, meanwhile, has been tipped as a dark horse for the World Cup. With a collective structure that makes them resilient defenders and dangerous on the counter-attack, they have been sharp when playing against European opponents. Their equaliser from Keito Nakamura was a surprising method, a headed goal from a corner. The victors of Group F are likely to face the third-place team in Group C, featuring Brazil, Morocco, and Scotland. Japan's structure and belief could end up shocking many.
The Netherlands also made a major decision before finalising their squad, choosing Crysencio Summerville for his instant impact. Despite having only earned two international caps before the tournament, Summerville impressed enough in camp to secure the start, repaying his manager's faith brilliantly. The game also featured second-tier scorers, with Japan's wing-back Nakumura, dynamite for French Ligue 2 side Reims last season, having earlier drawn Japan level with his own fine long-range strike.
Finally, the article touches on the goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, who was not exactly a picture of satisfaction at the final whistle. Although he could hardly have been blamed for the Netherlands' two goals, his standards are extremely high. Suzuki is a good example of the World Cup's wonderful capacity for multi-national quirks, having moved between Japan, Belgium, and Italy. His talent was clear, and he showcased his abilities against the Netherlands in Dallas, with superb saves from Donyell Malen and Cody Gakpo. The USMNT were once keen for him to consider switching allegiances, but Suzuki was always intent on representing the Samurai Blue.
