The 2026 FIFA World Cup has entered the knockout stage in spectacular fashion, with the opening four Round of 32 matches producing everything football fans could have hoped for. Dramatic late goals, two penalty shootouts, a stunning upset and unforgettable moments have already turned the expanded knockout format into an instant success.
Canada opened the Round of 32 with a historic 1-0 victory over South Africa, securing its first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout win thanks to a dramatic stoppage-time goal. The victory sparked wild celebrations among the home supporters and provided the perfect start to the tournament's elimination phase.
Brazil followed with a tense 2-1 win over Japan, relying on another late strike to avoid an upset. The five-time world champions were pushed to their limits but once again demonstrated their trademark resilience when the pressure was at its highest.
One of the tournament's biggest shocks came as Paraguay eliminated Germany after a thrilling contest that finished 1-1 following extra time. Germany thought they had found the winner, only for a controversial goal to be ruled out before Paraguay held its nerve to claim a 4-3 victory in the penalty shootout, sending the four-time champions crashing out.
The drama continued in the fourth match as Morocco staged a remarkable comeback against the Netherlands. A late equalizer forced extra time before the Atlas Lions triumphed 3-2 on penalties, booking their place in the Round of 16 and adding another unforgettable chapter to an already extraordinary knockout stage.
Across the first four Round of 32 fixtures, fans have witnessed three decisive goals scored in the closing stages and two matches settled by penalty shootouts, highlighting the intensity and unpredictability that define World Cup knockout football.
If these opening encounters are any indication, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is set for a thrilling run to the final, with every remaining match carrying the potential for more unforgettable drama, stunning upsets and iconic moments.
