Morocco secured a stunning upset against the Netherlands, advancing via penalty shootout after a tense 1-1 draw in regulation time. The dramatic conclusion followed a match where Morocco dominated possession but struggled to break down the Dutch defense, with Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen making key saves. The Netherlands took the lead against the run of play in the 72nd minute through Cody Gakpo, who scored in emotional circumstances just days after announcing a miscarriage with his partner.
Morocco found a deserved equalizer in stoppage time through Issa Diop's header, forcing extra time. The penalty shootout was equally dramatic, with both sides missing crucial spot-kicks. Ultimately, Ismael Saibari converted for Morocco, sending them through and Netherlands home.
In another major upset, Germany was eliminated by Paraguay in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw. Paraguay, considered underdogs, took the lead via Brighton's Julio Enciso, with Kai Havertz equalizing for Germany. A second-half extra-time goal for Germany was disallowed by VAR. During the shootout, Germany missed early chances, and despite Paraguay also missing opportunities to seal the win, Jonathan Tah's final penalty miss confirmed Germany's exit and Paraguay's historic victory.
Elsewhere, Brazil's legends, including Ronaldinho and Ronaldo, were spotted in the crowd, while Golden State Warriors star Jimmy Butler also attended a match. In a heartwarming moment, Cody Gakpo was surrounded by his teammates after scoring, offering support following the personal news he shared.
Looking ahead, today's matches include Ivory Coast vs. Norway, France vs. Sweden, and Mexico vs. Ecuador. France, with Kylian Mbappé looking to get back on the scoresheet, are expected to advance against Sweden, while Norway faces Ivory Coast in a crucial encounter. Mexico appears favored to defeat Ecuador in their tie.
Gabriel Martinelli's winning goal for Brazil against Japan was the latest winning goal in normal time in a World Cup knockout stage match since 1966.