Cody Gakpo's World Cup performance criticized after Netherlands draw with Japan
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 8:35 AM
Last updated Jun 15, 2026
Cody Gakpo's performance was deemed ‘subdued’ during the Netherlands' 2-2 draw against Japan in their 2026 World Cup opener. Virgil van Dijk scored first for the Dutch, but Gakpo struggled to make an impact, contributing to overall criticism of Netherlands' tactical decisions. He was withdrawn late in the game as tactical adjustments backfired, leading to a late equalizer by Japan's Daichi Kamada. Gakpo's ability to keep his starting position for the next match against Sweden remains uncertain amid scrutiny over his consistency.
- •Netherlands and Japan drew 2-2 in their World Cup match on June 15.
- •Virgil van Dijk scored early in the second half for the Dutch.
- •Cody Gakpo was criticized for his predictability and lack of impact.
- •Dutch tactics, including late substitutions, invited pressure leading to the equalizer.
- •Netherlands' next match is against Sweden.
- 8:35 AMYahoo Sports — Liverpool player questioned over World Cup performance which ‘descended into predictability’
"One Liverpool player was said to have a ‘subdued’ performance in his country’s first outing at the 2026 World Cup.Even without Wataru Endo, there was a healthy Reds contingent involved as Nether...
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