I think it will be okay: Japan's Takefusa Kubo addresses injury after stellar 2-2 World Cup draw vs Netherlands
(Courtesy :Â Getty Images)
The Japanese forward Takefusa Kubo was replaced early in the game.
The Japan national football team, managed by World Cup team manager Hajime Moriyasu, drew 2-2 with the Netherlands in Group F’s first match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Japan surrendered an early goal to Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk in the sixth minute of the second half. However, Keito Nakamura of Reims equalised. They once again lost the advantage when Crysencio Summerville scored.
Also read: Who is Keito Nakamura? Japan’s first goalscorer at FIFA World Cup 2026
However, in the 89th minute of the second half, when the odds were significantly stacked against them, Daichi Kamada scored a spectacular equaliser from a corner kick situation. It helped tie the score at 2-2 versus the Netherlands.
The Japan national football team, which had previously been plagued with injury problems, faced yet another injury variable from the tournament’s first encounter. This time, it was Takefusa Kubo, a crucial player in the team’s assault.
Takefusa Kubo began the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group F opener against the Netherlands at Dallas Stadium in the United States. He was replaced in the second half.
After a collision with an opponent on the left flank, he left the pitch to have his condition assessed. This was before signalling to the bench for his own substitution and eventually exiting the stadium.
Also read: Netherlands 2-2 Japan: Five key takeaways from exciting draw in FIFA World Cup 2026
Takefusa Kubo comments on his injury vs the Netherlands
His left knee was thoroughly iced. Before leaving the pitch, he was asked about his injury situation.
Takefusa Kubo said: “I dont know, i think i have been worn down from every direction. Whether I wil make it in time for the next match well, i wont know until i get checked out but i think it will be okay.”
The fact that he can walk alone shows that his ailment is not significant. However, him not being fully fit is a source of concern for coach Moriyasu and the Japanese national team. Key players such as Kaoru Mitoma, Takumi Minamino, and Wataru Endo had already been sidelined due to injury leading up to the World Cup.
Which injury has Takefusa Kubo suffered?
Takefusa Kubo seems to have picked up a knee injury.
Will he play in the next game?
His injury scans will determine that.
When is Japan’s next game?
It’s on 21st June, 9:30 am IST.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.