Rio Ferdinand has told BBC’s coverage of Japan losing to Croatia on penalties in the last 16 of the World Cup that Celtic star Daizen Maeda is a “livewire”, a “nuisance” for defenders and applauded his movement in the penalty area.
Maeda, 25, scored only his second goal for Japan in what was his 12th cap – and his first at the World Cup in Qatar. He gave Japan the lead on Monday afternoon, as Japan looked to shock many and knock Croatia out of the World Cup.
Coming up against Celtic teammate Josip Juranovic, and Rangers defender Borna Barisic, Maeda starred. A constant threat in Croatia’s back-line, he could have had more than one goal. He was inches away from a Junya Ito cross.
But then, he was first to react from a header down after a cross into the box. His outing lasted just after the hour mark, before Ivan Perisic equalised. Eventually, Croatia won the match on penalties. Ferdinand was impressed with Maeda.
“An absolute livewire. Only his second Japan goal. He looks like a man-possessed. You don’t want to play against that, absolute nuisance. He is a catalyst for others to come and press. Top-drawer movement, always on the move.”
Ferdinand: Celtic star Maeda is a livewire and a nuisance
What a performance from Maeda. A player that has been criticised during the tournament, not least by Ally McCoist. The Rangers legend was disappointed that Maeda had gone too early, having a goal disallowed against Germany.
But against Croatia, he was a thorn in the side for Dejan Lovren and Josko Gvardiol throughout. It was perhaps a surprise that he was taken off shortly after an hour – although, he might have only lasted for a bit longer than that.
However, for Maeda and Japan, the World Cup is over. With Celtic next featuring on December 17 against Aberdeen, it might be good news that £18k-a-week Maeda will now be returning to Glasgow – although, he may be given a break.
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