On June 29, 2026, the World Cup witnessed one of its most thrilling days in the knockout stage: Brazil narrowly avoided elimination against Japan, Paraguay delivered the tournament's biggest upset by ousting Germany in a penalty shootout, and Morocco once again defeated a European powerhouse.
Brazil's Dramatic Escape
In a nail-biting match at Houston's NRG Stadium, Brazil needed until the 95th minute to secure a 2-1 victory over Japan, a game that saw them struggle to assert control.
Kaishu Sano put Japan ahead in the 29th minute, capitalizing on a defensive blunder by the Brazilians, highlighting the team's struggles in the first half.
Brazil’s coach, Carlo Ancelotti, made a pivotal move during halftime by introducing Endrick, which invigorated Brazil’s attack and increased their offensive threat.
Casemiro equalized with a header in the 56th minute but had to leave the field due to an injury, adding another layer of uncertainty for Brazil.
Just when extra time seemed inevitable, Gabriel Martinelli latched onto a pass from Endrick, scoring past goalkeeper Suzuki to clinch Brazil’s spot in the next round.
With 69% possession and 18 shots, Brazil advances to the World Cup 2026 Round of 16, where they await the winner between Ivory Coast and Norway, set to play this afternoon.
Historic Victory for Paraguay
The day’s biggest shock came from Boston’s Gillette Stadium, where Paraguay sent Germany packing with a 4-3 penalty shootout win after a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes.
Julio Enciso gave Paraguay the lead with a header after a high press, while Kai Havertz equalized for Germany with a similar effort.
In extra time, Jonathan Tah appeared to secure Germany's advancement, but his goal was ruled out, extending the tension to the penalty shootout.
Germany's Havertz and Woltemade missed their penalties, while Antonio Sanabria was the lone Paraguayan to fail. José Canales netted the decisive penalty, sealing the 4-3 victory.
This marks the first time Germany has lost a World Cup penalty shootout, a historic setback for the Mannschaft.
Under the guidance of Gustavo Alfaro, Paraguay returns to the Round of 16 for the first time since the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where they reached the quarterfinals before losing to Spain. Their next opponent will be decided in the France vs. Sweden match at the MetLife Stadium today.
Morocco's Continued Success
The Atlas Lions proved their 2022 World Cup semifinal run was no fluke by defeating the Netherlands 3-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw at Monterrey's BBVA Stadium.
Cody Gakpo opened the scoring for the Dutch in the 72nd minute, an emotionally charged goal following the recent tragic news involving his family.
Issa Diop headed in a last-minute equalizer for Morocco, forcing the game into extra time.
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou played a crucial role in the shootout, saving Summerville’s penalty, and Ismael Saibari sealed the 3-2 victory for Morocco.
Morocco will now face Canada in the quarterfinals, after Canada eliminated South Africa with a last-minute goal on Sunday.
World Cup 2026 Knockout Insights
How did Brazil manage to win against Japan?
Brazil secured their victory with a last-minute goal from Gabriel Martinelli, who scored in stoppage time to break the 1-1 deadlock, following a crucial assist from Endrick.
What was significant about Paraguay’s victory over Germany?
Paraguay's victory was historic as it marked the first time Germany lost a penalty shootout in World Cup history, showcasing Paraguay's tenacity and strategic prowess under Gustavo Alfaro.
Who will Morocco face next in the World Cup?
Morocco will compete against Canada in the quarterfinals, following their victory over the Netherlands in a penalty shootout.