Neymar made his long-awaited return for Brazil in their final group game against Scotland, coming off the bench for a tearful cameo as the Selecao topped Group C. The 34-year-old had been sidelined with a calf injury just three weeks before the tournament, but his appearance has raised hopes he could play a greater role in Brazil's knockout campaign.
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti said Neymar is making 'great progress' but noted he could only play 15 minutes against Scotland due to limited training. 'I think he is doing well enough to do that but obviously it will depend on the context that we'll be facing during tomorrow's match,' Ancelotti said ahead of their round of 32 clash with Japan.
England are set to be without Reece James for their first knockout game due to a hamstring problem. Thomas Tuchel confirmed James has a 'minor hamstring issue' and is undergoing an accelerated rehabilitation programme, with hopes he could be available later in the tournament. Declan Rice's fitness also remains under assessment after he was rested for England's group finale against Panama, though Tuchel insisted he was available to play.
Mohamed Salah's hopes of featuring in a World Cup knockout match for Egypt are in doubt after he suffered a knee injury during their 1-1 draw with Iran. Egypt manager Hossam Hassan said Salah assured him he will be 'OK' and that it is not a major setback, but his availability for the round of 32 is uncertain.
Spain have been dealt a double injury blow with wingers Nico Williams and Yeremy Pino both suffering setbacks during their win over Uruguay. Pino has an acromioclavicular sprain in his collarbone, with Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente saying he could miss the rest of the World Cup. Williams has a groin problem and his availability for the knockouts is also in doubt.
