World Cup 2026 Round of 32 Kicks Off with Thrilling Matches and Late Drama
The first four games of the 2026 World Cup Round of 32 have delivered remarkable excitement. With two matches decided by penalty shootouts and three goals scored deep into stoppage time, the knockout stage has started with high drama.
Canada Edges Past South Africa
The Round of 32 began in Southern California with Canada facing South Africa. Stephen Eustáquito scored a stunning goal in the 92nd minute, striking from outside the box after a headed clearance landed at his feet. That late strike secured Canada’s first-ever win in this stage of the tournament and sent them through to the Round of 16. Canada will meet Morocco on July 4 in Houston, aiming for a spot in the quarterfinals. Interestingly, this finish was the calmest moment among the opening matches.
Paraguay Shocks Germany
Monday's encounter between Paraguay and Germany brought intense tension and a surprising result. Julio Enciso gave Paraguay the lead with a header just before halftime. Germany equalized early in the second half but couldn’t break down Paraguay’s defense afterward, which blocked eight shots. Germany thought they scored in extra time, but VAR overturned the goal due to a foul by Waldemar Anton. The match proceeded to penalties, where Paraguay triumphed, marking Germany's first-ever World Cup penalty shootout loss and another early exit for the 2014 champions.
Brazil Comes Back to Defeat Japan
Japan seemed set to eliminate Brazil after Kaishu Sano opened the scoring early on Monday afternoon. However, Brazil staged a dramatic comeback. Gabriel Martinelli scored the winner off the right post during the final minute of stoppage time, capitalizing on a Japanese turnover near the box. Despite dominating the second half, Brazil’s narrow victory at NRG Stadium kept fans on edge until the very end.
Morocco Overcomes Netherlands in Shootout
In the last match of Monday night, the Netherlands appeared poised to win following Cody Gakpo’s 72nd-minute goal. The emotional goal came days after Gakpo and his girlfriend announced the loss of their unborn child, adding a poignant layer to the game. Yet Morocco fought back; Issa Diop equalized with a header as stoppage time began, shifting momentum. Morocco then secured victory through penalties, with striker Ismael Saibari converting the decisive kick. Morocco will face Canada next.
The Round of 32 has certainly started with memorable moments and thrilling finishes. We’ll see if Tuesday’s fixtures keep up this level of intensity.
