Scotland is gearing up to host Japan in a friendly match at Hampden Stadium, Glasgow, on March 28, 2026, at 5 PM. This match marks a significant step in Scotland’s preparations for the upcoming World Cup.
The friendly is particularly noteworthy as it will be Scotland’s first game since qualifying for the World Cup, a milestone not achieved since 1998. The team is looking to build momentum following their recent 4-2 victory over Denmark in November.
Scotland’s head coach, Steve Clarke, emphasized the importance of both the match against Japan and an upcoming game against Ivory Coast, stating, “Both matches will be important in terms of preparation for the World Cup games.” This sentiment reflects the team’s focus on fine-tuning their strategy and squad ahead of the tournament.
In terms of squad changes, Craig Gordon, Scotland’s No. 1 goalkeeper, will be unavailable due to a shoulder injury, leaving Angus Gunn likely to start in goal. Additionally, Findlay Curtis has received his first call-up to the Scotland squad, marking a significant moment in his career.
Japan has been preparing for the match with a training camp hosted by Dumbarton FC, who expressed their delight in facilitating the Japan Football Association’s preparations. They stated, “We were delighted to host the Japan Football Association training camp this week, prior to their meeting with Scotland National Team at Hampden on Saturday.”
The match will be broadcast live on BBC One Scotland and BBC iPlayer, allowing fans to follow the action closely. With players from various clubs, including Aston Villa and Napoli, Scotland’s squad is diverse and ready to showcase their talent.
As the date approaches, anticipation builds among fans and players alike, eager to see how the team performs in this crucial friendly. The match against Japan is expected to provide valuable insights into Scotland’s readiness for the World Cup.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute changes to the squad or strategy, but the excitement surrounding the game continues to grow.