The 2026 World Cup knockout stage has started with incredible drama. Four teams played on Monday in the Round of 32. Every match was thrilling and full of surprises. Fans around the world could not believe the results. Two games went to penalty shootouts, which is very rare.
Brazil beat Japan 2-1 with a last-minute goal. Japan scored first, but Casemiro equalized with a header. Then substitute Martinelli scored in the 96th minute. It was heartbreak for Japan, who have never won a knockout game. Paraguay also shocked everyone by eliminating Germany on penalties.
The Germany match ended 1-1 after extra time. Paraguay won the penalty shootout 4-3 against the favorites. Their goalkeeper Gill saved two penalties and became a hero. Paraguay even declared a national holiday to celebrate this upset. Morocco then beat the Netherlands in another shootout.
These results remind us why the World Cup is special. Smaller teams can beat bigger ones on any day. The tournament still has many exciting matches ahead. If the knockout stage continues like this, fans should expect more surprises. This might become one of the best World Cups ever.
