Neymar set to miss Japan knockout as Brazil land in Houston

Japan await on Monday, sudden death from here

Brazil face Japan in the Round of 32 on Monday, June 29 (1) (2) (6). One game, no safety net. The squad landed in Houston on Saturday and Ancelotti has kept his lineup completely under wraps (2). Luiz Henrique and Rayan have been tested as potential Raphinha replacements during training in New Jersey. Neymar's calf remains the biggest question mark heading into the knockout stage (6).

Neymar likely out of the starting XI

The calf injury has not healed in time. Neymar is expected to miss the starting lineup against Japan, though he has been training at a high level according to Gabriel Martinelli (6). Martinelli called his potential return a major boost for the squad. Whether Ancelotti risks him off the bench is the call that could define the match.

Messi pulls clear in the Golden Boot race

Six goals in the group stage. Lionel Messi sits alone at the top of the World Cup scoring charts, two clear of the chasing pack (5). Vinicius Junior is on four goals alongside Dembélé, Mbappé, and Haaland, while Bruno Guimarães is also in the conversation. A big knockout round from Vini and the race tightens fast.

Deossa to Vasco hits a legal wall

Nelson Deossa's move from Betis to Vasco da Gama has stalled, blocked by judicial problems at the Brazilian club (3). Betis are already searching for alternatives. The Colombian midfielder had been expected to join the Brazilian league, but the deal is now frozen.