The Brazilian national team’s doctor, Rodrigo Lasmar, said Neymar could be sidelined for up to three weeks after an injury, adding concern for Brazil with the World Cup approaching. The update comes at a time when Neymar’s availability has become a major talking point, as the player works to recover in time for the tournament.
The report also focuses on a pre-World Cup friendly between Mexico and Australia, played on Saturday, May 30, in the United States. The match is part of both teams’ preparations for the World Cup, with Mexico set to host one of the biggest events in world football and Australia also seeking to finalize its squad.
Mexico and Australia are still waiting to announce their final 26-man rosters, making this friendly an important test for players hoping to impress their coaches. Mexico, coached by Javier Aguirre, is in Group A alongside South Korea, South Africa, and the Czech Republic. The team will play the opening match of the World Cup on June 11, but several positions remain open as the squad selection is not yet complete.
Australia, under coach Tony Popovic, is in Group D with the United States, Paraguay, and Turkey. Like Mexico, the Australians have not yet released their final tournament list, so the friendly offers another chance for players to strengthen their case for inclusion.
The two teams have met six times before. Mexico have one win, while Australia have two victories, with the remaining three matches ending in draws. Mexico’s only win came in their first meeting in 1970, and Australia has held the upper hand in the rivalry since then.
The friendly took place at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, one of the most iconic stadiums in the United States. Kickoff was scheduled for 11 p.m. Brasília time. The match was seen as a valuable step in both sides’ World Cup preparation, offering coaches a final look at combinations, fitness levels, and tactical options before making key decisions on their tournament squads.
Mexico’s expected lineup featured Ochoa; Sánchez, Vásquez, Reyes, and Gallardo; Álvarez, Fidalgo, and Pineda; Alvarado, Giménez, and Vega. Australia’s projected starting XI included Ryan; Souttar, Rowles, and Circati; Italiano, Irvine, Metcalfe, Behich, Boyle, and Mabil; and Irankunda.
