Akpeyi praises Japanese goalkeeper Suzuki following stalemate with Netherlands

Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has heaped praise on Japan's Zion Suzuki, who delivered a standout performance to help his team secure a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group F opener at the Dallas Stadium.

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Akpeyi made the comments during his halftime analysis on SuperSport, stating that Suzuki's display justified the Japan coaching staff's decision to start him over more experienced goalkeepers in the squad.

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Akpeyi noted that Suzuki's concentration and alertness were key factors in his impressive performance, saying "I want to give credit to the goalkeeper, this tells why he was chosen in goal ahead of the older ones on the bench because he has been able to concentrate on the game."

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He further highlighted Suzuki's ability to stay focused and make crucial saves, adding "So far, he has been alert and waiting to see the loose balls with strong hands as well, it tells that he has been able to keep his team in the game."

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Suzuki, who is of Ghanaian and Japanese descent, made four vital saves throughout the match, including a sharp stop to deny Donyell Malen early on, which set the tone for his solid performance.

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Japan twice came from behind to earn a point, with Virgil van Dijk initially giving the Netherlands the lead with a towering header, before Keito Nakamura levelled the score with a powerful effort.

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Crysencio Summerville then restored the Netherlands' lead with a whipped finish, only for Daichi Kamada to snatch a dramatic equaliser in the 89th minute.

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Netherlands goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen had a difficult evening, earning a low player rating of just three out of ten from Sports Mole, after palming a tame effort into his own top corner for Japan's late equaliser.

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In contrast, Suzuki's composed performance was a notable highlight, and Ryan Gravenberch was the pick of the Dutch outfield players, earning an eight out of ten for his all-round midfield display, which included assists for both Netherlands goals.

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The result has left Group F finely poised, with Japan sitting second behind leaders Sweden after the opening round of fixtures.