FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil Advance While Germany & Netherlands Exit

If the group stage hinted that this FIFA World Cup would be full of surprises, the Round of 32 has confirmed it. There was late drama, penalty shootouts and two major upsets as the Netherlands and Germany were both sent packing, while Brazil were pushed to the limit before eventually overcoming Japan.

ALSO READ: Bafana Bafana’s Historic World Cup Journey Comes To An End.

With the knockout stages now in full swing, the race for the trophy has become even more unpredictable.

Morocco Dump Out The Netherlands

One of the biggest stories of the round came in Monterrey, where Morocco produced another memorable World Cup performance to eliminate the Netherlands on penalties.

The match finished 1-1 after 120 tense minutes before Morocco held their nerve from the spot to win the shootout 3-2.

The Dutch looked on course for victory after Cody Gakpo opened the scoring, but Morocco refused to give in. A dramatic late equaliser forced extra time before goalkeeper Bono once again became the hero in the penalty shootout, helping send the Atlas Lions into the Round of 16.

The victory continues Morocco’s remarkable rise on the international stage and sets up a fascinating last-16 clash against Canada.

Paraguay Shock Germany

Germany were another European heavyweight to crash out after suffering a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay.

After 120 minutes ended 1-1, Paraguay won the penalty shootout 4-3 to complete one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. 

Julian Nagelsmann’s side dominated possession for long periods and thought they had won the game during extra time, only for Jonathan Tah’s headed goal to be ruled out.

That proved costly.

Kai Havertz, Nick Woltemade and Jonathan Tah all missed from the spot as Germany suffered the first World Cup penalty shootout defeat in the nation’s history.

For Paraguay, meanwhile, it was another famous chapter in their football history as they booked their place in the Round of 16.

Brazil Pass Japan’s Tough Test

Brazil remain on course for a sixth World Cup title, but they were forced to dig deep against an impressive Japanese side.

Japan stunned the five-time champions by taking the lead during the first half and looked capable of producing another major upset.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side responded after the break, however.

Casemiro levelled the scores before relentless Brazilian pressure finally paid off in stoppage time when Gabriel Martinelli fired home a dramatic winner to seal a 2-1 victory.

It was far from Brazil’s most convincing performance, but it demonstrated another hallmark of championship-winning teams.

Even when they are not at their best, they continue to find ways to win.

Brazil will now face either Norway or Ivory Coast in the Round of 16.

Knockout Football Never Disappoints

The opening Round of 32 fixtures have already shown exactly why knockout football is so special.

Margins are incredibly fine.

One mistake, one save or one successful penalty can completely change the course of a nation’s tournament.

For Germany and the Netherlands, their World Cup dreams are over.

For Morocco and Paraguay, belief continues to grow.

And for Brazil, the journey towards another world title remains alive, although Japan proved they will need to improve if they are to lift the trophy on North American soil.