If Japan and the Netherlands finish a World Cup match level, the result is a draw after 90 minutes, and each team gets 1 point in group play. In the 2026 group-stage tiebreak system, if teams end level on points, ranking is decided by head-to-head record first, then a mini-league if more than two teams are tied, followed by goal difference and goals scored.

What that means

  • In a group match, a tied score does not go to extra time. It stays a draw.
  • If the teams are level on points after the group stage, the World Cup uses tiebreak rules rather than a playoff.
  • For Japan and the Netherlands specifically, a 2-2 draw in their group match was reported, which meant both sides shared the points.

Simple example

If Japan and the Netherlands draw 2-2:

  • Japan gets 1 point.
  • The Netherlands gets 1 point.
  • Their final group position then depends on the rest of the results and the tiebreak rules.

Small note

Your question says “equals score,” which in football usually means “tied score” or “draw.” In World Cup group play, that is completely normal and often very important for qualification.

If you want, I can also explain what happens if they tie in the knockout stage.