World Cup Daily Brief: Germany's secret plan, Neymar talks injury, and Argentina gets fined

Throughout the tournament, we'll begin each day with our World Cup Daily Brief, bringing you all the highlights from the previous day's matches and news cycle, while also looking forward to what you can expect from the day ahead.

We are getting into the final countdown: Only three days left until it is all over, but don't forget about Saturday's thrilling third-place game. Germany is ready for Messi, but don't ask them any specifics. Neymar spoke for the first time since his injury, and revealed how much worse the incident could have been for him. And Argentina now owes FIFA some money for giving media the silent treatment. Here is your guide for the day.

What you need to know

Neymar on Zúñiga's challenge: 'If it had been another 2 centimeters I could be in a wheelchair'
In an emotional news conference on Thursday, Neymar revealed that he does not hold a grudge against Colombia, but he did not think the challenge was fair. 

Germany has a secret plan to stop Messi
This will not be a walk in the park for the Argentina star.

Ron Vlaar hit top speed of 33km/h vs. Argentina
But the real question is how fast he will go in the third-place game that the Dutch don't even want to deal with.

Arjen Robben thinks Argentina 'will not stand a chance' against Germany
This is not coming from a bitter place. Not at all.

Di Maria racing time to be fit for World Cup final
He is now at 60 to 80 percent fitness, according to Argentina. They are playing the waiting game leading up to Sunday's final

Latin America is begrudgingly backing Argentina
"Ugh, do we have to?" Latin America sighs.

FIFA fines Argentina Football Association
The team neglected to bring any players - only the coach - to news conferences. They are supposed to bring at least one, but talking is hard, you guys.

Coming up

Brazil is ready to play in the third-place game, the Dutch could not be bothered. It will be really interesting to see how this all shakes out, considering the Netherlands publicly stated their disdain for the Saturday match. 

ESPN's FiveThirtyEight favors Germany, but the famous Dubai camel oracle believes Argentina will come out on top. So it boils down to how much you trust camels. 

5 must reads

How falling in love with the Dutch makes it hurt so good

A captain without an armband: How Javier Mascherano is Argentina's most dependable player

How Argentina defended their way through the knockout stage

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