On Saturday afternoon, Celtic fans focused on Pittodrie. A 1-1 tie disappointed many, but the afternoon had some benefits.
The Samurai Blue were expected to go all the way, but Iran defeated them 2-1 with a 96th-minute penalty.
Reo Hatate and Daizen Maeda were devastated, while Celtic fans rejoiced. Both have been missed in recent battles, but Maeda will return after a long injury layoff.
He is healthy and could play for The Bhoys this midweek after starting for Japan in Qatar on Saturday. This may seem like a rapid turnaround, but Takumi Minamino played 23 minutes from the bench for his country in their quarter-final and then for Monaco on Sunday:
In the closing twenty minutes against Le Havre, the attacker came on. With two extra days for recovery, Maeda may turn around as quickly as Minamino.
Given the Hoops’ weekend performance, having the 26-year-old back for Easter Road would be a big help. The player has voiced his desire to return to his club, but Brendan Rodgers will decide if Maeda is fit and able to contribute.
