Japan’s Late Header Stuns the Netherlands in 2-2 Draw

Daichi Kamada made history for Japan on Sunday, June 15, 2026, scoring an 88th-minute headed equalizer in a dramatic 2-2 draw with the Netherlands. The result hurt the Dutch chances of finishing first in the group, while giving Japan a valuable point ahead of its matches against Tunisia and Sweden.

Kamada, a Crystal Palace midfielder and one of the best Japanese players in recent years, scored his 13th international goal after having only one club goal this season. Japanese outlet Nikkan Sports said he was “in the right place after the great play by Koki Ogawa,” adding that the corner kick move “surprised” the defense. Another Japanese report called Kamada “fearless,” saying he was in position when the ball slipped through the goalkeeper’s hands.

The goal was only Japan’s fourth headed goal ever in World Cups, out of 26 total tournament goals, and only the second by a Japanese player scored after the 85th minute in World Cup history. Japan has reached the knockout stage in each of the last two World Cups, but has never made it to the quarterfinals.

Dutch commentator Sander Jansen argued that the ball “barely touched Kamada’s head, but went in,” while noting that the move began with Ogawa, whom he described as a secondary player in the Dutch league.