Arjen Robben scored a brilliant curling effort but the Netherlands surrendered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Japan in their international friendly in Belgium on Saturday.
Japan started the game brightly but the Netherlands soon settled, and it was the Dutch who claimed some momentum thanks to some crisp passing and strong running.
Rafael van der Vaart put the Netherlands ahead after 12 minutes when he latched onto an error in the Japanese defence before lifting the ball into the net.
Robben then doubled the advantage five minutes before the break in superb style.
Van der Vaart became provider with a volleyed pass setting Robben free on the right hand side.
The Bayern Munich winger evaded the Japanese defence to cut inside and curl a left-footer into the top corner from 20 yards.
However, Japan responded well and were level after an hour following goals from Yuya Osako and Keisuke Honda.
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| Arjen Robben celebrates his goal against Japan with Netherlands teammate Rafael van der Vaart Photo: Getty Images |
Japan started the game brightly but the Netherlands soon settled, and it was the Dutch who claimed some momentum thanks to some crisp passing and strong running.
Rafael van der Vaart put the Netherlands ahead after 12 minutes when he latched onto an error in the Japanese defence before lifting the ball into the net.
Robben then doubled the advantage five minutes before the break in superb style.
Van der Vaart became provider with a volleyed pass setting Robben free on the right hand side.
The Bayern Munich winger evaded the Japanese defence to cut inside and curl a left-footer into the top corner from 20 yards.
However, Japan responded well and were level after an hour following goals from Yuya Osako and Keisuke Honda.
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