World Cup Knockouts: Brazil’s Dramatic Victory and Penalty Shootout Surprises

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Brazil triumphed against Japan with a dramatic 2-1 victory, scoring the winning goal in the sixth minute of stoppage time. Yesterday’s matches saw unexpected exits for two European teams via penalty shootouts in an intense day of eliminations. Join our NBC News live blog for ongoing coverage of today’s crucial games.

Brazil vs Japan: A Historic Win

Japan continued its struggle to win a knockout match at any World Cup, facing defeat against Brazil in Houston yesterday. Brazil, a five-time champion, aims for its first title since 2002. Kaishu Sano initially put Japan ahead with a goal in the 29th minute, passing Casemiro and shooting low past goalkeeper Alisson from the box’s edge.

Japan led at halftime, hoping for a historic victory. However, Brazil’s Casemiro equalized in the second half, heading the ball in at the far post as Japan defended relentlessly. At 34 years and 126 days, Casemiro became Brazil’s second-oldest scorer in World Cup history, after Bebeto. Coach Carlo Ancelotti made a tactical change, bringing on Gabriel Martinelli instead of Neymar, who scored the winning goal after Japan lost possession near its penalty box.

Brazil will face the winner of today’s Ivory Coast vs Norway matchup in the next round.

European Teams Stunned

Two powerhouse European nations faced exit. Paraguay shocked Germany, winning 4-3 on penalties, marking Germany’s first loss in a World Cup shootout after previously winning four (against France in 1982, Mexico in 1986, England in 1990, and Argentina in 2006). The regular and extra-time play ended 1-1, with Paraguay’s Julio Enciso scoring in the first half and Germany’s Kai Havertz equalizing in the 52nd minute.

The Paraguayan President declared a national holiday to celebrate the win. Paraguay will meet the winner of the France vs Sweden match in the round of 16, held in Philadelphia.

Similarly, Morocco advanced past the Netherlands with a win in penalties after a 1-1 draw post extra-time. Cody Gakpo gave the Netherlands the lead in the 72nd minute, later breaking down in tears following a recent personal loss. Issa Diop leveled the score in stoppage time.

In the ensuing chaotic penalty shootout, several misses occurred before Morocco’s Ismael Saibari clinched victory. Morocco will play against Canada in the round of 16 in Houston.

Today’s Match Previews

Today’s elimination matches include France vs Sweden, Ivory Coast vs Norway, and Mexico vs Ecuador.

The group stage saw three teams win all matches: France, Argentina, and Mexico. France emerged as a standout team, scoring ten goals while conceding two. Sweden faced defensive challenges, conceding five goals against the Netherlands and a total of seven. France looks strong with Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé scoring four goals each.

Norway and the Ivory Coast clash, favored by Norway’s goal threat Erling Haaland, who plays in their first knockout match in 28 years. Mexico, co-host of the tournament, enjoys robust support at Mexico City Stadium, aided by its strong home record. Ecuador enters with confidence, having upset Germany 2-1 in its final group game.