On June 15, 2026, South Korean media News1 reported, following the Japan national team's dramatic draw with the Netherlands national team in their first match of the FIFA World Cup North America tournament, that 'Japan's goal of winning the World Cup was by no means absurd.'

In their Group F opening match held in Arlington, Texas, USA, Japan showed resilience until the final stages against powerhouse Netherlands and secured a 2-2 draw with an equalizer just before the final whistle.

In South Korea, immediately after the match, the Japan national team's 'unusual strength against European teams' once again became a hot topic. Since 2021, Japan has recorded 8 wins and 2 draws in their last 10 matches against European teams. It was reported that they have maintained an unbeaten record against opponents such as Germany, Spain, England, and now the Netherlands.

Meanwhile, Takefusa Kubo, considered Japan's ace, being substituted due to injury also became a topic of discussion in this match. It is reported to be a problem near his knee, and his future condition is attracting attention.

Regarding this, South Korean netizens' comments included: 'Japan is indeed strong.' 'Enviable.' 'Putting emotions aside, present-day Japan has a higher level of completeness than South Korea.' 'It's amazing for an Asian country to achieve these results against Germany, Spain, England, and the Netherlands.' 'Honestly, I think many people underestimated them. At this point, it's skill.' 'This might be the strongest Japan national team in Asian football history.'

Other comments included: 'I want to evaluate them after they achieve results in the knockout stage.' 'Winning the championship would probably be impossible.' 'But being a candidate for the quarterfinals is quite realistic.' 'South Korea also used to compete with skill in the past. It might be time to reconsider our direction.' 'What's enviable about the Japanese team is not just their strength, but their consistent build-up over time.' (Translation/Editing: Higuchi)