Friendlies Overview

Attacking midfielder Andre De Jong has lauded the immense influence of the 24-year-old Bucs star following the club's historic treble-winning campaign. The Bafana Bafana international emerged as the talisman for the Sea Robbers, proving to be the difference-maker in a season that saw the Soweto giants dominate the domestic landscape.

England manager Thomas Tuchel has admitted to feeling worried and concerned after viewing a journalist's photograph of the playing surface ahead of his side's World Cup warm-up against New Zealand. However, the German tactician insisted that the newly relaid pitch at the Raymond James Stadium will not alter his pre-determined selection plans.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti remains optimistic that injured talisman Neymar will recover from a calf injury in time to feature at the 2026 World Cup. The Italian tactician confirmed that the 34-year-old forward is making excellent progress individually and will undergo a decisive medical scan on Monday before potentially rejoining full squad training next week.

The South Africa legend has hit out at the exclusion of Brandon Petersen and Gift Links from the Bafana Bafana squad for the upcoming World Cup. The former Premier Soccer League coach believes that performance on the pitch should always outweigh personal preferences when selecting a national team for the global showpiece.