Keito Nakamura rescues vital draw for injury-hit Japan at World Cup

Winger Keito Nakamura scored a crucial equaliser to help an injury-depleted Japan secure a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their 2026 World Cup opener in Monterrey.

The 25-year-old stepped up to play a starring role after the Samurai Blue lost several key players ahead of the tournament in Mexico.

Star attackers Takumi Minamino and Kaoru Mitoma were omitted from the squad entirely due to fitness concerns.

Captain Wataru Endo was also an 11th-hour withdrawal, robbing manager Hajime Moriyasu of three guaranteed starters.

An unexpected opportunity

These high-profile absences forced a tactical reshuffle that propelled the Reims forward into a much more influential position.

He had started just four out of ten matches during the third round of Asian qualifying.

However, playing in the unfamiliar role of left wing-back, the French-based attacker caused constant problems for the Dutch defence.

Opposing teams have struggled to prepare for his specific threat, making him a potent weapon on the world stage.

A throwback attacking style

The dynamic forward is currently the only member of the national squad playing second-tier club football.

Despite this status, his performance against the Netherlands has already generated speculation about a lucrative summer transfer.

His playing style is reminiscent of a bygone era, characterised by an insatiable appetite to take on defenders directly.

Often identifiable by his rolled-down socks, the pacey wideman excels at feinting past opponents and cutting inside onto his favoured right foot.

Balancing defensive duties

Moriyasu has granted his unexpected talisman the freedom to express himself in the final third.

This attacking licence does come with significant defensive risks in the modern game.

Operating as a makeshift wing-back in Mitoma’s absence, his defensive positioning was repeatedly exploited by the Dutch.

His teammates must now provide adequate defensive cover to ensure his attacking brilliance can continue to flourish in North America.