Celtic's World Cup contingent shrank further on Monday night following Japan's elimination at the Round of 32 stage. Japan took the lead against Brazil and looked as though they could pull off the win, only for Casemiro to level in the second half and Gabriel Martinelli to score a winner in stoppage time.
Japan were one of the most eye-catching teams at this World Cup, at least from those who were not expected to contend for the ultimate prize, but it's fair to say the knockout stage bracket was unkind to them, leaving them with a huge task against Brazil.
Maeda and Japan head home
The defeat means Celtic forward Daizen Maeda, who has been a key part of Japan's efforts, now heads home, alongside his teammates, although he will get some much-needed holiday time before he is expected back at Celtic training.
Writing after the game, the forward said: "I’m so sorry I didn’t meet your expectations.
“I’m just proud of what I’ve built up to this point with players, staff, family and fans and supporters in the past 3.5 years since the Qatar World Cup. Thank you very much for all your support.”
Ultimately, Japan were eyeing a Round of 16 spot, and against many other teams, you feel they would have got there, but Brazil have quality in abundance, and they found a way to turn it around with two moments of class.
And while Japan leave this tournament earlier than expected based on their performances, the vasy majority will be feeling pretty optimistic about their future as a footballing nation. They have invested heavily in the sport over recent years, adapting a clear philosophy throughout their youth teams, and it is showing.
Postecolou on Maeda
Maeda received some special praise from Ange Postecoglou, who was on punditry duty for ITV Sport. The Australian signed Maeda for Celtic, so he knows all about the Japanese forward's ability.
“This is the bit that is going to be crucial now, don’t sit back. Japan have been in this position before. 2018 against Belgium 2-0 up, Croatia 2022 1-0 up," he said.
“If they press at the right times like this they will make it very difficult for Brazil. You can’t do it for 45 minutes at that tempo but I’ve coached Maeda and I’ve said it before, this guy is absolutely world class at this.
“It may seem like a small thing but his pressing ability… just watch him close down space. He takes a touch and before you know it he’s on the ball. If they can keep that intensity up at different moments and regulate it, they’re going to make it awfully hard.”
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