Arlington: Kamada's crucial header in the 89th minute salvaged a 2-2 draw for the Samurai Blue against the Knights of the Sea in their opening Group F match of the 2026 World Cup at AT and T Stadium.

According to Thai News Agency, the Netherlands initially took the lead in the 50th minute when Ryan Gravenberg's precise cross found Virgil van Dijk, who managed to head the ball into the net after it struck the post. However, Japan's Keito Nakamura leveled the score at 1-1 in the 57th minute by skillfully dribbling into the penalty area and shooting past the near post.

The Netherlands regained the lead in the 64th minute with a goal from Crisencio Summerville, who expertly dribbled to the center and curled a shot into the far post, making it 2-1. Despite the setback, Japan remained persistent and found their equalizer in the 89th minute. From a corner kick, Koki Ogawa's header was deflected off Daichi Kamada and into the net, securing a 2-2 draw.

The match concluded with both teams earning a point each, setting the stage for the rest of their World Cup journeys.