QtrendsMorocco eliminated Netherlands in a penalty shootout to advance in the World Cup. Paraguay pulled off the biggest upset of the tournament, knocking out Germany also on penalties. Brazil edged Japan with an injury-time winner to reach the last 16. The debut of a 32-team knockout round has sparked debate over its impact on the tournament.
Morocco defeated the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout to advance in the 2026 World Cup, sending the Dutch to their earliest exit in tournament history. The match showcased Morocco's resilience in a high-pressure knockout setting. The result further underlines Africa's growing presence in the World Cup knockout stages. The penalty shootout was widely described as nail-biting and unforgettable.
The 2026 World Cup has introduced a Round of 32 for the first time in tournament history, sparking debate over whether the expanded format benefits the competition. The United States enters the knockout rounds with strong confidence after a successful group stage on home soil. Analysts note that some teams face significantly easier paths through the bracket than others. The new format has created both excitement and controversy among fans and commentators.
Paraguay shocked Germany in a penalty shootout, handing the four-time champions their earliest World Cup exit in decades. It is widely considered the biggest upset of the 2026 tournament. Germany had never lost a World Cup penalty shootout before this match, making the defeat even more historic. The result sent shockwaves through the football world and ended Germany's campaign in the Round of 32.
Brazil secured a dramatic injury-time victory over Japan to advance to the World Cup last 16. Gabriel Martinelli scored the decisive goal in stoppage time, ending Japan's run in the tournament. Japan has now failed to win a World Cup knockout match in five attempts. Brazil's late heroics kept their title hopes alive in a tightly contested match.
Additional coverage of Paraguay's historic victory over Germany explores the emotional significance for the Paraguayan side and what the defeat means for German football. The Paraguayan coach hailed the win as extraordinary. Controversy emerged after Germany had an extra-time goal disallowed by VAR, sparking debate over the decision. The Independent reported on the specific VAR review that overturned Germany's would-be goal.