Dutch, French earn friendly wins By MIKE ZEISBERGER, QMI Agency

This was no Dutch treat for Mexico.

One of the so-called favourites to go deep into the upcoming World Cup tournament, the Netherlands were buoyed by two goals from Arsenal striker Robin van Persie en route to a 2-1 victory in a friendly against Mexico on Wednesday.

The loss came just 48 hours after the Mexicans were thumped 3-1 by England during a World Cup tune-up match at Wembley Stadium.

Meanwhile, 2006 World Cup finalist France, like the Netherlands a squad with high expectations, narrowly edged Costa Rica 2-1.

Most teams continue to scout players before having to shave their rosters down to 23 by June 1. On the other hand, the U.S. made its final cuts Wednesday, preferring to use their remaining friendlies to prepare for South Africa.

Here’s a look at some of the upcoming tune-up matches prominent World Cup teams face in the next week:

May 29: Germany-Hungary

May 29: USA-Turkey

May 30: England-Japan

May 30: France-Tunisia

June 1: Portugal-Cameroon

June 1: Netherlands-Ghana

June 2: Greece-Paraguay

June 3: Italy-Mexico

June 3: Spain-South Korea