In what is a pivotal match for Japan in the Asian Cup, midfielder Reo Hatate has been named in the starting lineup against Indonesia.
This marks Hatate’s first start for Japan since his impactful performance in their last group stage match, where he notably assisted in the closing stages of their 2-1 loss to Iraq.
Here is the Japan starting XI for today’s 2023 AFC Asian Cup match against Indonesia! 🇯🇵🇮🇩
#MadeInJLEAGUE x #SAMURAIBLUE pic.twitter.com/jWSEV8O8ll— J.LEAGUE Official (English) (@J_League_En) January 24, 2024
Hatate has been a key player for Celtic, but has struggled with injury this season, with is last starting in their 2-2 draw against Atletico Madrid back in October.
His return to the starting eleven for Japan is a significant boost for the team as they seek a win or draw to advance to the next round of the Asian Cup.
The match, scheduled to kick off at 11:30, will see Hatate play a crucial role in Japan’s midfield, with expectations high following his assist in the previous game.
Daizen Maeda, another Celtic player and a regular contributor for Japan, starts on the bench for this match. Maeda’s speed and attacking prowess could be instrumental later in the game, providing Japan with additional options upfront.
