Two days to go, and the excitement is mounting. While Europe slept, more friendly action and fitness news emerged, starting with Neymar's recovery from a calf injury that had cast doubt on his participation in Brazil's opener against Morocco.
Neymar's Recovery Progress
Brazil's all-time record scorer underwent an MRI scan on Monday, which showed he is making good progress in his treatment. The Brazilian Football Confederation stated: "He will continue to follow the recovery schedule and fitness programme as planned by the Brazil team medical staff." Neymar did not train with teammates at Brazil's base, the new training ground of MLS outfit New York Red Bulls, but instead worked in the gym.
Michael Olise Shines for France
In last night's friendly action, Michael Olise demonstrated why he is one of the most watchable footballers in the world with a hat-trick in France's 3-1 win over Northern Ireland in Lille. Didier Deschamps fielded his attacking big guns, including Désiré Doue and Kylian Mbappé, in Les Bleus' final match on home soil before flying to their Boston base. Deschamps praised Olise: "We'll need a Michel Olise at that level. Michael stands out because of the season he has had at Bayern and with us. He has achieved some really great things, he is full of confidence. He also has the ability to put in the effort, which is remarkable." Patrick Kelly scored Northern Ireland's consolation, his first international goal for the Barnsley midfielder.
Spain Impress in Mexico
Elsewhere, Spain turned it on for a Mexican crowd when they beat Peru 3-1 in Puebla. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring after two minutes with a fierce shot from the edge of the area. Pedri doubled the lead after half an hour, tapping into an empty net following a cross from Ferran Torres. Spain added a third early in the second half when Yéremy Pino's delivery forced an error from goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, before Jairo Velez pulled one back for Peru with a low finish.
