Reo Hatate has been named in the starting lineup for Japan’s crucial last-16 match against Bahrain in the Asian Cup, marking his second consecutive start for his country.
It’s a positive sign for Celtic, as it indicates Hatate’s recovery from his recent injury struggles. Daizen Maeda will begin the match on the bench.
Hatate’s return to form is timely, considering his difficulties with injuries this season. His last appearance for Celtic was in a Champions League match against Atletico Madrid, where he was forced to leave the field early due to an injury. His participation and start for Japan in two consecutive matches show that he is regaining fitness and form, which bodes well for Celtic in the second half of the season.
The match between Japan and Bahrain is set to kick off at 11.30 UK time.
Meanwhile, Celtic’s Hyeon-gyu Oh and Hyun-jun Yang, along with their teammate Marco Tilio from Australia, have already secured their spots in the quarter-finals of the Asian Cup. The upcoming match between South Korea and Australia will see these Celtic players face off against each other, adding an intriguing subplot for the club’s supporters.
