Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli are reported to face Japan with Brazil. Gabriel started all three group matches as Brazil went unbeaten, while Martinelli was used from the bench twice and could now be considered for a larger role.
Kai Havertz brings the clearest scoring form into Germany’s meeting with Paraguay. The report says he started all three matches and has scored two goals, although Germany arrive after losing their final group game to Ecuador. His involvement could be important if Germany need a response under knockout pressure.
Martin Odegaard is expected to return for Norway against Ivory Coast after sitting out the final group match. Later, William Saliba’s France face Sweden and Viktor Gyokeres, meaning one Arsenal player is guaranteed to advance if the reported bracket holds.
England provide Arsenal’s largest group of players in one fixture. Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze helped England finish top of their section. Saka supplied an assist against Panama, Rice is expected to return after being rested, Madueke has featured in every game and Eze has made two substitute appearances.
Piero Hincapie is reported to have been one of Ecuador’s standout performers before their match with Mexico. Leandro Trossard enters Belgium’s tie with Senegal after scoring twice against New Zealand.
Spain’s match with Austria completes the schedule. Mikel Merino has featured in all three group games, while David Raya and Martin Zubimendi are still waiting for their first minutes. The next storyline is whether Arsenal’s established performers progress - and whether the players seeking minutes can change their tournament status before returning to club football.