The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 delivered an unforgettable day as both Paraguay and Morocco stunned European giants in dramatic penalty shootouts. Paraguay eliminated four-time champions Germany in another gripping contest that also required penalties, while Morocco edged past the Netherlands after a tense 1-1 draw. Both underdogs kept their composure from the spot to secure famous victories and book their places in the Round of 16.
Paraguay Shock Germany in Penalty Shootout Thriller
Germany suffered a dramatic elimination as Paraguay won 4-3 on penalties after the teams played out a 1-1 draw across 120 minutes.
Paraguay struck first in the opening half through Julio Enciso, who capitalised on a swift attacking move to silence the German supporters.
Germany responded shortly after the break when Kai Havertz restored parity with a composed finish in the 54th minute. Both teams created chances during the remainder of normal time and extra time, but neither goalkeeper was beaten again.
FIFA World Cup 2026 (Round of 32): Germany vs Paraguay Official Match Stats
The penalty shootout proved decisive, with Paraguay displaying remarkable composure to convert four spot-kicks and complete one of the biggest upsets of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The result ends Germany’s World Cup campaign earlier than expected, while Paraguay continue their dream run into the knockout stages.
Germany at the FIFA World Cup: Stage-wise Exit History & Finishing Record
Morocco Knock Out the Netherlands on Penalties
Morocco produced one of the tournament’s biggest surprises by defeating the Netherlands 3-2 in the penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1 following extra time.
The Dutch finally broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute when Cody Gakpo finished off a well-worked attack, putting the Netherlands on course for the quarter-finals. Morocco, however, refused to give up and found a dramatic equaliser in stoppage time through Issa Diop, forcing the game into extra time.
FIFA World Cup 2026 (Round of 32): Netherlands vs Morocco Official Match Stats
Neither side could find another breakthrough during the additional 30 minutes despite several promising opportunities. The match was eventually decided from the penalty spot, where Morocco held their nerve, converting three penalties to complete a memorable upset.
The victory sends Morocco into the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, while the Netherlands bow out after a heartbreaking defeat in the shootout.
Netherlands at the FIFA World Cup: Stage-wise Exit History & Finishing Record
Two Giant-Killing Victories Headline Round of 32
Both Paraguay and Morocco demonstrated outstanding defensive discipline, resilience, and confidence under pressure to eliminate two traditional football powerhouses.
The day’s results underline the unpredictable nature of the FIFA World Cup, where determination and composure can overcome even the biggest favourites. Paraguay and Morocco now head into the Round of 16 with momentum and belief after producing two of the tournament’s most memorable victories.
Match Results
- Germany 1-1 Paraguay (Paraguay won 4-3 on penalties)
- Netherlands 1-1 Morocco (Morocco won 3-2 on penalties)
Both Paraguay and Morocco advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, while Germany and the Netherlands were eliminated after dramatic penalty shootouts.