Brazil may again be without Neymar against Haiti, with the forward reportedly limited to partial training after a calf injury. He missed the opening draw, and his absence leaves Brazil searching for greater creativity as the group stage gathers pace.
Spain have more encouraging news around Lamine Yamal. The teenager returned from a hamstring problem as a substitute, while Nico Williams and Mikel Merino have also resumed involvement. Luis de la Fuente described Yamal as being in “perfect condition”, although Spain must still decide how aggressively to use him against Saudi Arabia.
The United States have already secured progress, giving Pochettino some room to manage Pulisic’s calf issue. The report says the forward missed the latest match after being withdrawn previously, with the hope that he can return for the final group fixture.
For Canada, the concern is more complicated. Alphonso Davies has reportedly returned to the bench after a hamstring injury but has yet to play, while Ismael Kone is expected to miss the remainder of the tournament following surgery.
England are also monitoring several players before their next game. Declan Rice went off with discomfort around his lower back and upper hamstring, though Thomas Tuchel does not believe the problem is serious. Bukayo Saka continues to be managed, Harry Kane is not expected to be affected by late cramp, and Marcus Rashford is being watched after muscle tightness.
The next round of matches will reveal which teams can restore their biggest names-and which managers choose patience over risk. In a tournament decided by fine margins, the best selection may sometimes be the player left on the bench.