Scotland Announces Friendlies Against Japan and Curacao Ahead of World Cup
Scotland has confirmed two friendly matches against fellow World Cup finalists Japan and Curacao as part of their final home preparations for this summer's tournament in the Americas.
Steve Clarke's team will face Japan on Saturday, March 28, at 17:00 GMT, followed by a match against Curacao on Saturday, May 30, at 13:00 BST.
In a statement to the Scottish FA website, Clarke expressed his excitement about facing a top-20 team, noting that Japan will be visiting Hampden for the first time.
"We are also looking forward to welcoming Curacao to Glasgow, which should give us insight into the CONCACAF federation ahead of our game against Haiti," he said.
This match will mark the first encounter with the Caribbean island nation, currently ranked 82nd in the world, two spots above Haiti, who are also in Scotland's World Cup group.
Curacao is currently managed by former Rangers and Netherlands coach Dick Advocaat.
Japan, under the guidance of Hajime Moriyasu, is ranked 18th globally, 18 places ahead of Scotland. The Scottish FA has indicated that they will soon confirm details for two additional away friendly fixtures.
Scotland has faced Japan three times in the past, with the most recent match resulting in a 2-0 victory for the Samurai Blue during a friendly in Yokohama in 2009, following two previous goalless draws.
Clarke is eager for his squad to return to Hampden for the first time since their thrilling 4-2 win over Denmark, which secured their World Cup qualification.
"It will be great to reunite with the squad for the first time since that incredible night, which marked our return to the World Cup after such a long absence," he added. "We can spend the first day reminiscing, but then it’s back to the serious business of preparing for the summer."