Scotland host Japan at Hampden Park in a friendly clash that offers both sides a key opportunity to prepare and experiment ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Scotland vs Japan Form and Head to Head
Scotland approach this friendly having recently won against Denmark 4-2 in a World Cup Qualification match. In their last six matches, the Scots have recorded 4 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss.
Japan's last outing saw them win against Bolivia 3-0 in an international friendly. Over their last six fixtures, the visitors have secured 4 victories, 2 draws, and 0 defeats.
The most recent encounter between these two nations was in October 2009, an International Friendly which saw Japan defeat Scotland 2-0.
These two sides have met just 2 times previously. Of those matches, 0 ended in a victory for Scotland, 1 was a draw, and 1 went the way of Japan.
Who is the Betting Favourite in Scotland vs Japan?
Japan come into this one as slight favourites, with the latest odds suggesting around a 43% chance of victory, while Scotland are priced closer to 30%.
| Match Result | Best Odds | Bookmaker |
|---|---|---|
| Japan | 13/10 | BresBet |
| Scotland | 23/10 | bet365 |
| Draw | 5/2 | AK Bets |
Odds last updated at 2:15PM Saturday, 28th March. View the full market on the Japan vs Scotland Betting Odds page on Oddschecker.
BresBet
Scotland vs Japan Team News
Scotland boss Steve Clarke is without winger Ben Doak, but Everton right-back Nathan Patterson returns after injury, alongside Napoli midfielder Billy Gilmour, who missed the November internationals. Scott McTominay and John McGinn are both fit again following recent layoffs, with the former having scored 14 international goals to date, though none have come in friendly matches.
Clarke has refreshed his attacking options by calling up Tommy Conway and teenage winger Findlay Curtis, while no players were selected from Hearts or Motherwell despite their strong domestic form. Angus Gunn regains the gloves after returning to fitness, replacing Craig Gordon, who started against Denmark at the age of 42.
Japan are dealing with several high-profile absences, as Ajax duo Ko Itakura and Takehiro Tomiyasu are sidelined, along with Takefusa Kubo, Takumi Minamino and captain Wataru Endo, who is recovering from ankle surgery.
Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki has returned to fitness following a serious hand injury. Daizen Maeda could feature against some familiar Celtic teammates in Glasgow, while Feyenoord striker Ayase Ueda is expected to lead the line if selected.
Scotland vs Japan Predicted Lineups
Scotland (4-2-3-1): Angus Gunn; Robertson, Hanley, Souttar, Ralston; Ferguson, Billy Gilmour; Christie, Scott McTominay, John McGinn; Adams
Japan (3-4-2-1): Zion Suzuki; Watanabe, J. Suzuki, Taniguchi; Nakamura, Sano, Kamada, Doan; Takefusa Kubo, Mitoma; Ayase Ueda
Scotland vs Japan Match Prediction
Scotland return to Hampden in high spirits after securing World Cup qualification, but this friendly gives Steve Clarke a useful test against strong opposition. Despite their recent success, their home form has been a concern, with a lack of wins in front of their own fans still an issue.
Japan arrive full of confidence, having impressed against European sides and shown a consistent attacking threat. Hajime Moriyasu’s team look sharp and well-drilled, even with rotation in the squad.
All things considered, this has the feel of a competitive and entertaining match, with both sides capable of making an impact so a draw looks like a fair outcome.
Prediction: Scotland 2-2 Japan
Scotland vs Japan Bet Builder Tip
Our Scotland vs Japan Bet Builder Tip is:
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Yes - Both Teams To Score
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K. Mitoma Over 0.5 - Shots On Target
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S. McTominay Over 0.5 - Shots On Target
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K. Tierney Over 1.5 - Tackles
Best odds available of 17/2 at bet365 at the time of publishing.
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