Overview
- Paraguay eliminated Germany on penalties after a 1-1 draw, with goalkeeper Orlando Gill saving multiple spot kicks to seal a 4-3 shootout win.
- Morocco beat the Netherlands on penalties following a late equaliser by Issa Diop, with Ismael Saibari converting the decisive spot kick to win 3-2.
- Brazil reached the last 16 when Gabriel Martinelli scored a stoppage-time winner to complete a 2-1 comeback over Japan.
- Monday’s results have upended expectations by removing two traditional European powers and giving underdog and non-European teams a clearer path forward in the bracket.
- The expanded 48-team format, long travel distances and contentious VAR and officiating moments are now central storylines that could affect recovery, tactics and attendance as the tournament progresses.