Scotland vs Japan

Japan left it late but made it count, as Junya Ito struck in the 84th minute to seal a 1-0 friendly win over Scotland at Hampden Park. A low cross from the left found Ito perfectly positioned, and he dummied Angus Gunn before slotting coolly into the bottom corner. It had been a cagey affair until then, with Japan dominating possession but struggling to unlock a disciplined Scottish defence. Daizen Maeda spurned an early chance in the fifth minute with a miskick, while Scotland came closest when Kieran Tierney teed up George Hirst in the 78th minute, only for the striker's effort to drift inches wide. Ritsu Doan picked up the match's only yellow card moments later for a late challenge on Scott McKenna. Scotland threw everything forward in three minutes of added time but couldn't find an equaliser. Tommy Conway earned his first start for the Tartan Army, while teenager Findlay Curtis came off the bench for a late debut. It's a frustrating result for Scotland as they ramp up their World Cup preparations, while Japan extend their unbeaten run and head home with confidence ahead of a busy summer.