Pre-World Cup 2026 friendlies: Scotland-Japan, likely lineups

Scotland opens its path to the World Cup, reached twenty-eight years after its previous participation, with a high-profile test against Japan. Enthusiasm in Glasgow is through the roof, fueled by a return to the rainbow stage after their last appearance dated 1998. Steve Clarke’s men arrive at the 6 p.m. Italian date at Hampden Park with extreme confidence, on the strength of five wins in their last seven matches and a home solidity that promises to carry the group through the overseas expedition as well.

The movement’s growth is evidenced by a generation of talent shining in Europe’s major leagues, from the Serie A successes of leaders such as McTominay, Ferguson and Gilmour to Robertson’s steady leadership in the Premier League, giving Steve Clarke’s selection an international caliber not seen in decades.

While this is a historic fixture for the Scots, Japan looks like a veteran of the competition, being in its eighth consecutive participation. The “Samurai Blue” have dominated the Asian qualifiers and confirmed their status with prestigious successes, most notably the recent victory over Brazil. For the Japanese national team, the Scottish trip represents the first act of an elite British tour, which will conclude next week in the Wembley Temple against England.

Clarke will do without Shankland, Hearts’ bomber who remained at home with a flexor problem. Regarding Saturday night’s starting eleven, Gunn will defend the posts, captain Robertson will be on the left flank with Souttar and Hanley at center back, Ferguson and Gilmour in the midfield, and forward Mctominay in support of Che Adams.

In the Nipponese, Parma’s goalkeeper Suzuki will be between the posts, Taniguchi and Watanabe the favorites in defense, Kamada and Sano in the middle of the field. Attack composed of skittish and unpredictable players: Kubo and Mitoma will act behind the only forward Ueda.

Probable formations

SCOTLAND (4-2-3-1): Gunn; Ralston, Souttar, Hanley, Robertson; Ferguson, Gilmour; McGinn, McTominay, Christie; Adams. All. Clarke.

JAPAN (3-4-2-1): Z.Suzuki; Watanabe, J.Suzuki, Taniguchi; Doan, Sano, Kamada, Nakamura; Kubo, Mitoma; Ueda. All. Moriyasu.