KYOGO FURUHASHI will start up front this morning for Japan as they take on Brazil.
The Celtic striker was on the bench for the first Japanese friendly of the summer but takes centre stage today as he looks to rubber stamp his place in the squad for the World Cup at the end of the year.
Knowing Kyogo’s injury history — there’s a certain amount of trepidation for Celtic fans during this period. We’re all hoping the striker comes through his international spell unscathed. Senses heightened just a little more after seeing Carl Starfelt be stretchered off playing for Sweden.
Japan are coming up against some top players — the likes of Neymar, Vinicius Juior and Lucas Paqueta.
Kyogo will also be tasked with beating Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson.
It should be an interesting game and a big test for this Japan side who also start long time Celtic target Ko Itakura — I wonder if Celtic scouts will be watching the defender.
Japan haven’t lost in 8 games and are unbeaten in their last 5 home games. Brazil are unbeaten in 12 and have beaten Japan in their last four encounters.
