Photography by: Gabriel Bayona Sapag

Japan's reputation for resilience on the World Cup stage grew stronger on Sunday night in Dallas.

Twice trailing against one of the tournament favorites, the Samurai Blue fought back on both occasions to secure a deserved 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in a captivating Group F clash at Dallas Stadium. Daichi Kamada's late equalizer ensured Japan left Texas with a valuable point and reinforced their status as one of the competition's most dangerous dark horses.

For long stretches, it appeared the Dutch would emerge as early group leaders. Ronald Koeman's side controlled possession and looked increasingly comfortable after taking the lead twice in the second half. Yet Japan's refusal to abandon its game plan ultimately earned its reward.

The first half offered little indication of the drama to come. Chances were limited, with Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki producing sharp saves to deny Donyell Malen and Cody Gakpo, while Japan threatened sporadically through Keito Nakamura and Ayase Ueda on the counterattack.

The match burst into life five minutes after the restart. Ryan Gravenberch delivered a teasing cross into the penalty area and Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk rose highest, heading home to give the Oranje a 1-0 advantage.

Japan's response was immediate.

Just six minutes later, Takefusa Kubo found Nakamura in space outside the box, and the winger drove a low effort toward goal. A slight deflection helped wrong-foot Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen as the ball nestled into the corner, leveling the score at 1-1.

The Netherlands regained control midway through the second half through one of their brightest performers. Crysencio Summerville cut inside from the right flank and curled a superb left-footed effort beyond Suzuki and in off the post to restore the Dutch lead.

With time running out, Hajime Moriyasu pushed all his chips forward. Japan increased the pressure, introducing fresh legs and pinning the Netherlands deeper into their own half.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 89th minute. Junya Ito's corner found substitute Koki Ogawa, whose powerful header took a final touch off Kamada before looping beyond Verbruggen. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Japanese supporters and capped another memorable World Cup comeback.

The draw leaves Group F finely balanced after two rounds of matches, with both Japan and the Netherlands sitting on four points and unbeaten. While the Dutch will rue conceding so late after leading twice, Japan can take enormous confidence from a performance that once again showcased the mentality that has become their trademark on football's biggest stage.

For the Netherlands, the quality is obvious. For Japan, so is the character. And after a thrilling night in Dallas, Group F remains wide open.