HOUSTON & BOSTON June 29, 2026 – In a dramatic day of knockout football at the FIFA World Cup 2026™, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the USA, both Brazil and Paraguay secured their places in the Round of 16.
Brazil Edge Japan in Stoppage-Time Thriller
Brazil came from behind to defeat Japan 2-1 in a tense Round of 32 clash at NRG Stadium in Houston.
Japan stunned the five-time champions early when Kaishu Sano unleashed a stunning long-range strike to give the Samurai Blue the lead.
Brazil responded in the second half with a powerful header from Casemiro, leveling the score and shifting momentum.
The decisive moment came deep into stoppage time when substitute Gabriel Martinelli fired home the winner, sending Brazil through in dramatic fashion and sparking wild celebrations among the Seleção faithful.
Brazil, under pressure for much of the match against a well-organized Japanese side, showed resilience and clinical finishing when it mattered most to book their ticket to the last 16.
Paraguay Produce Shock Win Over Germany on Penalties
In one of the biggest upsets of the tournament so far, Paraguay eliminated Germany after a pulsating 1-1 draw followed by a 4-3 penalty shootout victory in Boston.
Julio Enciso gave Paraguay the lead with a well-taken header.
Germany fought back through Kai Havertz to level the score.
The game went to extra time, where a late Germany goal was controversially disallowed by VAR for a foul on Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill by Waldemar Anton.
In the shootout, Gill emerged as the hero with crucial saves, while José Canale converted the decisive penalty to send Paraguay into the Round of 16.
The result marked a historic moment for Paraguayan football and ended Germany’s campaign in the group stage of the knockout phase.
These results highlight the unpredictable nature of the expanded 48-team World Cup format. Brazil showed the character expected of a powerhouse, while Paraguay demonstrated tactical discipline and mental strength to overcome one of the tournament favorites.
Both teams will now turn their attention to the Round of 16, where they will face tough opposition as the knockout stages intensify.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup continues with more high-stakes matches across North America in the coming days.
Full-time scores:
Brazil 2-1 Japan (Casemiro, Martinelli; Sano)
Germany 1-1 Paraguay (a.e.t.) – Paraguay win 4-3 on penalties (Enciso; Havertz)
Paraguay’s goalkeeper Orlando Gill was named Man of the Match for his outstanding performance in the shootout.
About The Author
