Two European heavyweights bowed out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday as Germany and the Netherlands suffered heartbreaking Round of 32 exits after losing on penalties.
Germany were stunned by Paraguay, who secured a famous 4-3 shootout victory after a tense 1-1 draw that lasted through extra time.
Julio Enciso gave Paraguay the lead before Kai Havertz brought Germany level in the second half. Germany thought they had won the match when Jonathan Tah found the net in extra time, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review.
The match went to penalties, where Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill emerged as the hero with two crucial saves before Jose Canale converted the decisive spot kick to send the South Americans through. The defeat also marked Germany’s first-ever loss in a World Cup penalty shootout.
In the other Round of 32 clash, Morocco eliminated the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties after a gripping 1-1 draw.
Cody Gakpo put the Dutch ahead in the second half, but Morocco struck deep into stoppage time through Issa Diop to force extra time. Neither side could find a winner over the additional 30 minutes, setting up a dramatic shootout.
Morocco held their nerve from the spot, with Ismael Saibari scoring the winning penalty after goalkeeper Yassine Bounou produced vital saves to seal a memorable victory.
The result sends Morocco into the Round of 16, where they will face co-hosts Canada, while Paraguay will take on the winner of the France versus Sweden clash.
