Kubo leaves Netherlands vs Japan in wheelchair after knee scare in 2-2 World Cup draw

Takefusa Kubo was spotted being pushed in a wheelchair inside Dallas Stadium after suffering a serious-looking knee injury during Japan’s 2-2 draw with the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup on Wednesday night.

The Real Sociedad winger was forced off on 75 minutes after signalling he could not continue following a collision with Denzel Dumfries. Kubo was able to walk off the pitch, though he moved gingerly and was later seen grimacing as he hobbled around the perimeter at full-time — before the more alarming wheelchair images emerged from inside the stadium.

Post-match, the 25-year-old offered cautious reassurance to Spanish television: “I think I’m okay but let’s see how it goes.” Japan’s Football Association confirmed to Mirror Football that Kubo did not go to hospital for checks and will instead be assessed by the squad’s medical staff as the team returns to their base in Nashville, Tennessee.

Japan head coach Hajime Moriyasu was unable to provide a firm prognosis at his press conference. “I haven’t received a detailed report from the medical staff yet,” he said. “He was walking on his own, so I hope it’s just a minor injury. We don’t know at this point.”

Kubo subsequently posted on Instagram in a tone that suggested some optimism: “There’s still a long way to go. Thank you for your support. We’re just getting started.”

On the pitch, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk headed the Netherlands in front before Reims attacker Keito Nakamura levelled for Japan. West Ham’s Crysencio Summerville restored the Dutch lead, only for Crystal Palace midfielder Daichi Kamada to rescue a point deep into stoppage time.

The injury blow compounds a difficult build-up for Japan, who lost Liverpool midfielder Wataru Endo before the tournament began. Endo had sustained an ankle injury in February and, after travelling to the United States for preparations, withdrew from the squad due to persistent pain — and subsequently announced his international retirement.

Japan return to action on Saturday when they face Tunisia in Monterrey. Tunisia were beaten 5-1 by Sweden in their Group F opener.