Junya Ito’s late aim gave Japan a 1-0 win over Scotland in Steve Clarke’s aspect’s first 2026 World Cup warm-up recreation.
Clarke’s gamers left the Hampden Park pitch to euphoric scenes in November after their dramatic 4-2 win over Denmark certified them for the finals in North America, however their return to the nationwide stadium was a way more sedate occasion.
Each side hit the woodwork within the first half however Hajime Moriyasu’s aspect created extra alternatives after the break and substitute Ito shot previous goalkeeper Angus Gunn within the 84th minute to interrupt the impasse and depart Scotland winless in 4 conferences in opposition to Japan.
Scott McTominay went closest for Scotland
Scotland tackle Ivory Coast at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium on Tuesday evening they usually have two extra warm-up video games in opposition to Curacao and an as-yet-unnamed opponent earlier than they take to the most important stage of all for the primary time in 28 years within the USA, the place they face Haiti, Morocco and Brazil of their group.
If there was a way of anti-climax in regards to the recreation in opposition to Japan, the Tartan Military will little doubt see a extra energised residence aspect when it issues this summer time.
