Both friendlies offered valuable insight into squad depth and tactical readiness as teams fine-tuned preparations for the FIFA World Cup.

Doue Announces Himself as France Outclass Colombia

Desire Doue delivered a breakthrough performance, scoring twice as France secured a 3-1 victory in an entertaining clash.

Head coach Didier Deschamps rotated heavily, but his side quickly found rhythm after an early scare when Richard Rios fired narrowly wide.

France took control midway through the first half, with Doue opening the scoring via a deflected strike that wrong-footed Alvaro Montero. Moments later, Marcus Thuram doubled the advantage, powering a header in off the crossbar from Maghnes Akliouche's precise delivery.

Colombia attempted to respond after the break, but a crucial defensive intervention from Maxence Lacroix halted a dangerous move led by Luis Diaz.

That moment proved pivotal, as France quickly countered and Thuram turned provider for Doue, who calmly added his second.

Substitute Jaminton Campaz pulled one back late on, but Colombia could not complete a comeback. Even with Kylian Mbappe seeing a late goal ruled out, France's fringe players impressed as they extended their unbeaten run and strengthened their case for World Cup selection.

Mexico Stand Firm to Deny Portugal Cutting Edge

At the Estadio Azteca, Mexico produced a disciplined defensive display to hold Portugal to a 0-0 draw.

Portugal created the better openings early on, with Joao Felix and Goncalo Ramos both going close. However, Mexico gradually grew into the contest, with Obed Vargas and Israel Reyes testing Rui Silva from distance.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Bruno Fernandes firing just over and Roberto Alvarado responding in kind. Despite further chances, including a late miss from substitute Armando González, neither side could find a breakthrough.

Mexico's defensive resilience stood out once again, as they recorded another clean sheet and continued their strong form heading into the tournament.

Portugal, meanwhile, were left searching for sharper finishing despite extending their unbeaten run against Mexico.

Dates, venues, and kick-off times for the Nedbank Cup round of 16 confirmed