Morocco, Paraguay and Brazil are through to the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after producing memorable victories in Monday’s Round of 32 action.
Morocco and Paraguay both held their nerve in penalty shootouts to eliminate European heavyweights the Netherlands and Germany respectively, while Brazil staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Japan 2-1 and continue their quest for a sixth world title.
Morocco produced one of the biggest upsets of the tournament by defeating the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties after a thrilling 1-1 draw in Monterrey. Cody Gakpo had put the Dutch ahead in the 72nd minute, but Morocco refused to surrender and found a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser through Issa Diop to force extra time. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou then starred in the shootout with a crucial save before Ismael Saibari converted the winning penalty to send the Atlas Lions into the last 16.
Earlier in Boston, Paraguay stunned four-time champions Germany after another gripping 1-1 draw. Julio Enciso gave Paraguay the lead before Kai Havertz restored parity for Germany in the second half. Neither side could find a winner in extra time, and Paraguay prevailed 4-3 on penalties as goalkeeper Orlando Gill made decisive saves to help his side record one of the greatest victories in the nation’s World Cup history.
Brazil also had to dig deep against a spirited Japan side after falling behind. The five-time world champions responded with an improved second-half display, eventually completing a 2-1 comeback thanks to a dramatic stoppage-time winner from Gabriel Martinelli, securing their place in the Round of 16 after a hard-fought contest.
Attention now turns to the Round of 16, where Morocco will face Canada on July 4 after the Canadians eliminated South Africa. Paraguay will meet the winner of France and Sweden, while Brazil will take on the winner of the Ivory Coast versus Norway clash as the knockout stage continues across the United States.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Jones Adzi
