World Cup 2026 Round of 32: Drama, Late Goals, and Penalty Shootouts Mark Start
The Round of 32 kicked off with a burst of excitement this summer. Four matches have already delivered unforgettable moments, including two penalty shootouts and three goals scored deep into stoppage time.
Canada Edges Past South Africa
Canada opened the knockout round with a tense but relatively subdued match against South Africa. Stephen Eustáquito emerged as the hero, scoring a stunning goal from outside the box in the 92nd minute to secure a 1-0 victory for Canada. This marks their best World Cup run so far. They will now face Morocco on July 4 in Houston for a spot in the quarterfinals.
Paraguay Shocks Germany
Monday's clash between Paraguay and Germany was a nail-biter that ended with an upset. Julio Enciso put Paraguay ahead just before halftime with a powerful header. Germany equalized early in the second half but struggled thereafter. Paraguay's defense stood firm, tallying eight crucial blocks and denying Germany's attacks. A late German goal in extra time was disallowed after a VAR review flagged a foul by Waldemar Anton. The match went to penalties, where Paraguay triumphed, handing Germany its first ever World Cup shootout loss and another premature exit despite being 2014 champions.
Brazil Overcomes Japan With Last-Minute Goal
Brazil’s encounter with Japan was packed with tension. Japan took an early lead through Kaishu Sano, threatening to eliminate the five-time champions. However, Brazil fought back fiercely in the second half. Gabriel Martinelli struck the decisive goal in the final moments of stoppage time, capitalizing on a Japanese turnover near the box. His finish off the right post completed a dramatic comeback at NRG Stadium, leaving Brazilian supporters relieved yet breathless.
Morocco Stuns the Netherlands in Penalties
The Netherlands seemed poised to win after Cody Gakpo scored in the 72nd minute, a deeply emotional moment following a recent personal loss for him. Still, Morocco fought back relentlessly. Issa Diop headed in the equalizer as stoppage time began, turning the momentum entirely. In the penalty shootout, Ismael Saibari sealed Morocco's advancement, setting up their Round of 16 meeting against Canada.
The opening days have set a high bar for drama and unpredictability. Fans are eagerly waiting to see what Tuesday’s matches will bring.
