Brazil escape Japan scare, Germany crash out as Paraguay script World Cup shocker
Houston/IBNS: Brazil survived a major scare to defeat Japan 2-1, while Paraguay produced one of the biggest upsets of the FIFA World Cup 2026 by knocking out four-time champions Germany on penalties as two more teams booked their places in the Round of 16.
Brazil rally to knock out spirited Japan
Japan stunned the five-time champions in the 29th minute when Kaishu Sano capitalised on a defensive error to give the Asian side the lead.
Casemiro scored the equaliser for Brazil. Photo: FIFA World Cup/X
Brazil, however, responded strongly after the break, with veteran midfielder Casemiro heading home the equaliser in the 56th minute.
Just when extra time seemed inevitable, substitute Gabriel Martinelli struck in stoppage time, finishing off a move created by Bruno Guimarães to seal a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory.
Brazil will now face the winner of the Ivory Coast vs Norway tie in the Round of 16.
Gabriel Martinelli scored the winning goal for Brazil. Photo: FIFA World Cup/X
Paraguay stun Germany in penalty shootout
Paraguay pulled off one of the biggest shocks of the tournament by eliminating Germany 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in their Round of 32 clash.
Julio Enciso gave Paraguay the lead with a first-half header before Kai Havertz equalised early in the second half for Germany.
The Germans thought they had found a late winner in extra time, but a Jonathan Tah header was ruled out by VAR for a foul.
Julio Enciso's celebrating his goal against Germany. Photo: FIFA World Cup/X
In the penalty shootout, Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill emerged as the hero with crucial saves, while José Canale converted the decisive spot-kick after Germany missed three penalties, sending Paraguay into the Round of 16 and condemning the four-time world champions to another disappointing World Cup exit.
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