Koeman: Japan is a very strong team, but I can't accept conceding from a corner

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman spoke immediately after his team's 2-2 draw with Japan in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup. The "Oranje" conceded a late equalizer from a corner kick, failing to secure all three points despite leading twice.

"The first half might not have been particularly spectacular, but things changed after the break. What they usually do is press, and when they fell behind, they didn't give up. It's a shame we conceded two goals; we scored twice but couldn't hold onto our lead. I cannot accept that they scored against us from a corner, because we weren't sharp enough in that situation," Koeman said after the match.

"The result is always of great importance. Japan is a very strong and good team, I can accept that. There are enough elements from which to learn lessons, but positive things can also be taken from this; we shouldn't be dissatisfied," added the Dutch coach.