In a thrilling start to their Asian Cup campaign, Japan emerged victorious with a 4-2 win over Vietnam, but the match left Celtic fans feeling a little frustrated.
Despite the celebratory mood around Japan’s success, two of Celtic’s key players, Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate, were left on the bench throughout the encounter.
Held at Al Thumama Stadium, the Group D opener was a goal-fest, especially in the first half. Japan’s star, Takumi Minamino, was in scintillating form, netting twice to secure a much-needed win for his nation. However, the absence of Maeda and Hatate from the pitch was notably felt by the Celtic fans.

Celtic is now facing the challenge of navigating through their fixtures without these two influential players until Japan’s participation in the tournament ends. The frustration for Celtic fans stems from the possibility that Maeda and Hatate might spend more time on the bench than on the field, raising questions about the impact of their absence on Celtic’s performance in the interim.
Maeda, known for his blistering pace and eye for goal, and Hatate, celebrated for his versatility and technical skills, have been integral to Celtic’s recent success. Their absence, without substantial game time at the Asian Cup would feel like a waste of their talents when they could be back in Glasgow playing.
This situation puts a spotlight on the challenges clubs face during international tournaments. While representing one’s country is a prestigious honour for players, if you’re not getting the game time, it will be frustrating.
The hope is that Maeda and Hatate not only get to showcase their talent on the international stage but also return to Celtic fit and ready to contribute to the team’s aspirations.
As Japan advances in the Asian Cup, all eyes will be on if either gets meaningful game time, with Celtic fans particularly keen to see their stars in action.
Not for me, quite happy if both don’t play as much as a minute in this nuisance of a tournament mid season?
I know it might be regarded as a huge honor within Japan and Korea to represent there countries at this tournament, but still rather see them producing the goods in the green and white of our club all the same?
Hardly need any more disruption to our season with injuries, so would be happy enough if Japan and Korea get knocked out of this nonsense of a tournament quicker rather than later imo
Both will benefit from the training and the hotter climate, gives the lads a chance to get over their injuries before returning to dreary Scotland.
Quite happy if they stayed om the bench and came back fit and ready for the run in
I wouldn’t overly worry about the two of them not being picked. Hajime Moriyasu knows what he’s doing. Japan would normally be expected to beat Vietnam and fielding their strongest side at this early stage of the tournament is not necessary. He knows about Maeda’s attributes but he also knows he’s just back from a long lay-off with injury, so he’s given other players a chance. I’m sure when it gets into the nitty-gritty and more threatening opposition, he’ll revert back to what he knows and that will mean Maeda and Hatate will get some game time. He’s just utilising his full squad. In many ways, I’m fine with our Japanese players not being fielded because the risk of injury is ever present. Maeda was awesome when he came back from the world Cup. He was playing with confidence, full of energy and was buoyed up after some great results and contributions.