Virgil van Dijk scored for Netherlands in their World Cup Group F opener against Japan on a recent date. The Dutch were denied a victory when Koki Ogawa scored two minutes from time.

What happened?

The Netherlands took the lead through Virgil van Dijk's header six minutes into the second half. However, Japan boss Hajime Moriyasu was left furious as he believed VAR should have checked for a foul in the build-up.

Why it matters for Virgil van Dijk

Virgil van Dijk's goal was not enough to secure his side all three points against Japan. The draw leaves Netherlands with a point in their World Cup Group F opener.

What comes next?

Netherlands will focus on their next game against Sweden, according to Virgil van Dijk. He stated, "We take the point, and now we focus on Sweden. We just have to keep going."

The match ended in a draw, with Japan rescuing a point through substitute Ogawa's header. Virgil van Dijk's side will look to improve their performance in their next game.

Japan boss Moriyasu offered a tearful apology to Wataru Endo for the decision that led to the Liverpool midfielder's international retirement. Endo has retired from international football due to a foot problem.

The Liverpool star sustained the injury against Sunderland on February 11. He made his comeback by completing 45 minutes in a 1-0 World Cup warm-up victory over Iceland, but his recovery had not progressed as hoped for.

Moriyasu said, "Not only did we hurt Endo, but we also caused pain to his family, who cherish him, the supporters, and many others. I feel deeply sorry and would like to apologise."

Virgil van Dijk's Netherlands side will look to bounce back from the draw against Japan. They will face Sweden in their next World Cup Group F game.

The Netherlands are still in the running for a spot in the knockout stages. Virgil van Dijk's goal against Japan will give them confidence going into their next game.

The World Cup Group F opener between Netherlands and Japan ended in a draw. Virgil van Dijk's side will look to improve their performance in their next game against Sweden.

Virgil van Dijk stated, "They didn’t create that much, so that’s why it’s extra disappointing that we conceded through a set-piece." He also said, "But that’s the reality, we take the point, and now we focus on Sweden."