Virgil van Dijk admitted the Netherlands were left disappointed after Japan’s late fightback denied them a winning start at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The Dutch appeared on course to take control of Group F after Crysencio Summerville gave them the lead in the 64th minute during a tense encounter in Dallas.
However, Japan refused to surrender. The Samurai Blue continued pushing forward and were rewarded late in the match when substitute Koki Ogawa’s header took a decisive deflection off Daichi Kamada, sending the ball into the net and securing a valuable 1-1 draw.
The result ended Dutch hopes of becoming early group leaders and highlighted Japan’s resilience after falling behind.Van Dijk praised his team’s defensive effort but admitted the late concession was difficult to accept, especially from a set-piece situation.
“I think we defended well. We went a bit too deep in the end, but obviously circumstances play a part in that as well,” the Liverpool skipper said.
The Netherlands captain felt Japan did not create many clear chances but acknowledged that moments like the late corner can decide matches at the highest level.
“They didn’t create that much, so that’s why it’s extra disappointing that we conceded through a set-piece. But that’s the reality, we take the point, and now we focus on Sweden.”
Despite the frustration, Van Dijk insisted the Netherlands must stay focused and use the result as a foundation for the rest of the tournament.
“We just have to keep going. It’s a start and we have to grow into the tournament. Hopefully there are still many more games to come for us.”
The Liverpool defender admitted the timing of Japan’s equaliser made the draw feel less satisfying, but urged his teammates to move forward.
“Because we conceded late on, it doesn’t feel as nice, but we move on.”
Japan’s late drama ensures Group F begins with both teams sharing the points, while the Netherlands now turn their attention to their next challenge against Sweden.
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