CELTIC star Daizen Maeda hailed his Japan team-mates after the "wonderful" comeback win over Germany at the World Cup.

The Samurai Blue kicked-off their Qatar campaign with an unlikely triumph against Germany having been a goal down at the break.

Maeda - who was selected ahead of Celtic team-mate Kyogo Furuhashi in the national team - started for Japan in their competition opener.

And the rapid winger looked to have fired Japan ahead in the first-half but was denied by the offside flag having gone just too quickly before slamming home at the far post.

Germany would then take the lead with Ilkay Gundogan slotting home from the penalty spot after 33 minutes.

But Japan rallied and equalised in the 75th minute through Ritsu Doan before Takuma Asano fired the winner seven minutes from time.

After the match Maeda - subbed off after 57 minutes - heaped praise on his team-mates for the comeback win as he dedicated the triumph to Japanese fans unable to attend the match.

As quoted by The Scottish Sun, Maeda said: "It was a great victory from a wonderful team.

"We had to deliver a win for all the Japanese people who couldn't be here.

"To come from behind and beat Germany...it is wonderful.

"Our performance in the first half, when we conceded just one goal, led to our comeback.

"We supported each other and stood together on the pitch."

Meanwhile, Celtic announced their first signing of the January window with Yuki Kobayashi penning a five-year deal at Parkhead.

Ange Postecoglou finalised his first signing to join the club when the window opens on January 1 well in advance of the transfer period officially starting.

And the Celtic boss is hopeful the left-sided centre-back will prove a hit after landing the signing following a significant period monitoring the defender.

On his transfer move, Kobayashi said: "I am so excited to be joining Celtic and I am really looking forward to this wonderful opportunity.  

"I will be giving everything to try and be successful with the club.

"Right across the world, everyone knows what a special club Celtic is and it will be a real honour to wear this fantastic jersey.'

READ MORE: