Ueda draws Premier League eyes as Japan hold Netherlands 2–2

Ueda attracting Premier League and Bundesliga interest after World Cup heroics

Ayase Ueda is the name on every scout's lips. Clubs from the Premier League and the Bundesliga have already approached the Feyenoord striker after his performances at this World Cup (2). The 26-year-old became the first Japanese player ever to score a double at the tournament (4). "He podido desquitarme," Ueda said after the match: I got my revenge (4).

Japan 2–2 Netherlands, group lead still up for grabs

Your team went toe-to-toe with the Dutch and walked away with a point. The 2–2 draw keeps Japan firmly in the race for top spot in the group, with an unusual tiebreaker rule potentially deciding who advances first (3). Kamada's late equalizer forced Koeman into defensive changes that backfired badly on the Dutch side, and Van Dijk did not hide his frustration about the drink breaks after the match (3).

Tunisia crushed 4–0, Ueda makes history

Japan dismantled Tunisia 4–0 earlier in the group. A Tunisian player summed it up: "What is happening to us is incomprehensible" (1). For Japan, it was a statement. Ueda's brace in that game etched his name into the record books (4).

Dutch pundits lower expectations after Japan draw

Valentijn Driessen was blunt about the Netherlands' prospects after the 2–2 draw: "That is not going to happen at this World Cup" (5). The Dutch press are not used to seeing their team struggle against Asian opposition, and your side's resilience is being treated as a genuine warning sign across their media.

Fan reactions

Japan supporters are taking the 2–2 draw as proof the team belongs at this level. On Reddit, fans are already hunting for good spots to watch the Sweden match in Malmö on Friday night, expecting a lively atmosphere (link).