The round of 32 produced a series of unexpected twists, none more striking than Paraguay’s victory over Germany. After a tightly contested 1‑1 draw in Foxborough, Massachusetts, the South American side prevailed in a penalty shootout, edging the European powerhouse 4‑3.
Penalty drama in Foxborough
Germany’s night turned sour when three of their players missed from the spot, a rare lapse that allowed Paraguay to claim the win. The German side, a four‑time World Cup champion, had entered the match as a favorite but could not recover from the setback.
Morocco’s decisive strike
Morocco’s campaign continued in Guadalupe, Mexico, where they eliminated the Netherlands 3‑2 on penalties. The match’s turning point came when Ismael Saibari found the net, sealing a result that marked the Dutch team’s earliest exit from the tournament.
Brazil’s late surge
In Houston, Texas, Brazil edged Japan 2‑1 thanks to a dramatic late goal from Gabriel Martinelli. The striker’s finish arrived in second‑half stoppage time, preserving Brazil’s hopes and delivering a tense finish for the South American fans.
The outcomes underscore the volatility of knockout football, where a single penalty or a moment of individual brilliance can reshape a tournament’s narrative.