The 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage has barely begun, and it’s already delivering some of the most dramatic moments in tournament history. In just the first two days of the Round of 32, two European giants — Germany and the Netherlands — have been eliminated on penalties in stunning upsets that have sent shockwaves through the football world.
What Happened? A Recap of the Round of 32 Openers
🇩🇪 Germany 1–1 Paraguay (3–4 on penalties) — Paraguay Wins!
Paraguay 1–1 Germany (4–3 pens)
The first major shock came on Monday when Paraguay knocked out four-time world champions Germany in sudden-death penalties.
- 42′ — Julio Enciso put Paraguay ahead with a powerful header
- 52′ — Kai Havertz equalized for Germany early in the second half
- 102′ — Germany thought they’d won it, but a VAR review overturned Jonathan Tah’s goal (foul on the keeper)
- Penalties: Paraguay’s goalkeeper Orlando Gill saved two German spot-kicks, becoming a national hero
- Jose Canale slotted the winning penalty in sudden death
This was Germany’s first-ever penalty shootout loss in a World Cup — and another early exit for the 2014 champions.
🇳🇱 Netherlands 1–1 Morocco (2–3 on penalties) — Morocco Wins!
Netherlands 1–1 Morocco (2–3 pens)
Hours later, Morocco sent another European powerhouse packing.
- 72′ — Cody Gakpo scored an emotional goal for the Dutch, dedicating it to his unborn son
- 90+1′ — Issa Diop equalized for Morocco with a powerful header in first-half stoppage time
- Penalties: Morocco’s keeper Yassine Bounou saved a crucial penalty from Crysencio Summerville
- Ismael Saibari scored the winning spot kick
The Netherlands have now been eliminated from a World Cup on penalties for the third consecutive tournament — a painful pattern for Dutch fans.
🇨🇦 Canada 1–0 South Africa & 🇧🇷 Brazil 2–1 Japan
Canada 1–0 South Africa: Stephen Eustáquio scored from outside the box in the 92nd minute to send Canada to the Round of 16 for the first time in their history.
Brazil 2–1 Japan: Japan led 1–0 before Gabriel Martinelli scored the winner in the 89th minute to complete Brazil’s dramatic comeback.
Tuesday, June 30 Matches
| Match | Venue | Time (ET) |
|---|---|---|
| 🇳🇴 Norway vs 🇨🇮 Ivory Coast | AT&T Stadium, Arlington | 12:00 PM |
| 🇫🇷 France vs 🇸🇪 Sweden | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta | 3:00 PM |
| 🇲🇽 Mexico vs 🇪🇨 Ecuador | Estadio Azteca, Mexico City | 6:00 PM |
FAQ
Who advanced to the Round of 16 so far?
Canada and Paraguay were the first two teams through. Morocco joined them on Monday night. Paraguay will face the France/Sweden winner, while Morocco takes on co-host Canada on July 4 in Houston.
Has a host nation ever won the World Cup?
Yes! Six host nations have won — Uruguay (1930), Italy (1934), England (1966), West Germany (1974), Argentina (1978), and France (1998). The USA, Canada, and Mexico are all still alive in 2026.
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, PC Master Deals earns from qualifying purchases.