Celtic stars Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate were unused substitutes as Japan secured their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2-0 victory over Bahrain at Saitama Stadium.
Hajime Moriyasu’s side became the first team to officially book their spot at the tournament, but there was no opportunity for the Hoops duo to showcase their talents on the international stage.
Maeda has been in the form of his life for Celtic this season, terrorising Scottish Premiership defences with his relentless energy and clinical finishing.
Hatate, meanwhile, remains a key cog in Brendan Rodgers’ midfield, dictating play with his sharp passing and technical ability.
Despite their club form, the pair were left on the sidelines as goals from Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo successfully navigated Japan’s passage to North America.
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At least they were involved in the Japan squad to face Bahrain, and were available to feature, unlike former Celtic striker Kyogo Furuhashi.
The 30-year-old was one of four players omitted from the matchday squad entirely, adding to his frustrations since making a big-money move to Rennes during the winter transfer window.
The forward has struggled for minutes in France and will be desperate to force his way into Japan’s plans ahead of next year’s World Cup.
Elsewhere in World Cup qualifying, Celtic winger Hyun-Jun Yang saw some action for South Korea, playing the final five minutes of their 1-1 draw with Oman.
The Koreans remain top of their qualifying group and undefeated after round seven, but Hong Myung-bo’s side will be disappointed not to have secured all three points.
