FIFA Friendlies: Mikel Oyarzabal bags brace for Spain, Florian Wirtz in top form for Germany
Spain dominated Serbia in Villarreal, while Germany edged out Switzerland in a seven-goal thriller as part of Friday night's international friendlies.
Federico Valverde: Was surreal to score hat-trick against Man City
Speaking during Uruguay's training camp, the Real Madrid midfielder reflected positively on his current form after scoring his side's only goal in a recent 1-1 draw against England at Wembley Stadium. His strike underlined his growing influence on the international stage.
That confidence has been fuelled by a remarkable display in the UEFA Champions League, where Valverde netted a hat-trick in Real Madrid's dominant 5-1 aggregate victory over Manchester City in the round of 16. The performance further cemented his importance in Alvaro Arbeloa's squad.
"I'm enjoying a lot the moments like the ones I lived recently, scoring a hat-trick in a game that I never imagined would score more than two goals in," said Valverde.
"For me it is a unique moment. But that also allows me to continue working harder and to remain focused on football, which I think is what also puts me in a good position to make the National Team."
Domestically, however, Valverde will be absent for Real Madrid's upcoming La Liga clash against RCD Mallorca due to suspension. The enforced break could prove beneficial, allowing him time to recover and maintain peak condition.
Thomas Tuchel: England defender Ben White must take boos 'on the chin'
Ben White endured a turbulent return to the international stage as England were held to a 1-1 draw by Uruguay at Wembley Stadium, with the defender at the centre of both celebration and controversy.
John Stones injury puts England place at risk ahead of Uruguay clash
Manchester City defender John Stones faces a fitness test ahead of England's friendly against Uruguay on Friday at Wembley after picking up a calf injury.
Toni Kroos: Real Madrid president motivates players to stay hungry after trophies
Toni Kroos has offered insight into the relentless mentality that defines Real Madrid in the Champions League, shedding light on why the club remains one of the most feared sides in Europe.