The 2026 World Cup is around the corner, and several Celtic players have already helped their nations to sport’s biggest event.
Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate have been key players on the domestic stage for Celtic, and they have also regularly featured for Japan.
Last Friday, the 2026 World Cup draw took place in farcical scenes in Washington, as Japan learnt who their Group F opponents will be – the Netherlands, Sebastian Tounekti’s Tunisia and the winner of the UEFA B playoff.
And now, Maeda and Hatate know how Japan will prepare for the 2026 World Cup, because it’s going to involve a trip to Wembley.
How much would you sell Daizen Maeda for?
England confirm Japan friendly at Wembley
Now that nations know who they will face in the group stages of the World Cup, it has allowed those teams that have qualified to book their friendly matches for the international break in March.
On Wednesday, England announced that Thomas Tuchel’s side will face Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay and Japan in a March double-header.
Hopefully, Maeda and Hatate are fit and performing, because Celtic supporters will be able to see the duo work their magic on the Wembley stage.
England’s game against Japan is due to take place on Tuesday, March 31, with a 7:45 pm (UK time) kick-off.
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