By Jessica Afuye
The 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage delivered another night of thrilling football as Brazil, Paraguay and Morocco produced memorable performances to secure their places in the next round.
Brazil 2–1 Japan
Brazil came from behind to defeat Japan 2–1 in a tense Round of 32 encounter. Japan shocked the five-time champions when Kaishu Sano opened the scoring in the 29th minute after capitalising on a defensive mistake.
Brazil responded in the second half, with Casemiro equalising in the 56th minute. The midfielder rose highest to head in a cross from Gabriel Magalhães, bringing Brazil back into the contest.
The match appeared to be heading towards extra time until substitute Gabriel Martinelli scored a dramatic late winner in stoppage time, sending Brazil into the next round.
Goals:
Japan — Kaishu Sano (29’)
Brazil — Casemiro (56’, assist: Gabriel Magalhães), Gabriel Martinelli (90+’)
Germany 1–1 Paraguay (Paraguay win 4–3 on penalties)
Paraguay produced one of the biggest surprises of the tournament by eliminating Germany after a dramatic penalty shootout.
Paraguay took the lead through Julio Enciso, but Germany fought back as Kai Havertz scored the equaliser to make it 1–1. Neither team could find a winner during extra time, forcing the game into penalties.
Paraguay showed great composure from the spot, winning the shootout 4–3 and knocking out the four-time world champions.
Goals:
Paraguay — Julio Enciso
Germany — Kai Havertz
Netherlands 1–1 Morocco (Morocco win 3–2 on penalties)
Morocco continued their impressive World Cup campaign after defeating the Netherlands on penalties in another dramatic knockout match.
The Dutch side took the lead through Cody Gakpo, but Morocco refused to give up and found an equaliser through Issa Diop in the closing stages of the match.
With no winner after extra time, the game went to penalties, where Morocco held their nerve to win 3–2 and advance to the next stage.
Goals:
Netherlands — Cody Gakpo
Morocco — Issa Diop
The World Cup knockout rounds are now producing unforgettable moments, with traditional powerhouses facing tough exits while underdogs continue their historic runs.