The single sharpest fact in one or two punchy sentences. Who did what, where, when, and why it matters. Not a summary of everything — the one thing that makes someone stop scrolling. A reader who only reads this paragraph must understand what happened.

Germany, a perennial World Cup contender, was stunned by Paraguay in a 1-1 tie after extra time, with Paraguay eventually winning 4-3 in the penalty shootout. Few predicted Germany's exit this early in the tournament. Germany's defeat marked their earliest World Cup exit since 1938.

The knockout stages of the World Cup have only just begun, but they have already delivered everything football fans could hope for: stunning upsets, dramatic penalty shootouts, and unforgettable moments. Germany's exit was a shocking development in the Round of 32.

Germany were left heartbroken after Paraguay produced one of the biggest shocks of the tournament on Monday. The sides were locked at 1-1 after 120 minutes before Paraguay held their nerve to win the penalty shootout 4-3.

Germany's team coach, Hansi Flick, has been under pressure to deliver a World Cup title, but his side's early exit raises questions about his tactics. Flick has been Germany's manager since 2020, but his tenure has been marred by inconsistent performances.

Morocco, a dark horse in the tournament, defeated the Netherlands in another dramatic Round of 32 encounter. The Atlas Lions prevailed 3-2 on penalties after the match ended 1-1 after extra time. Morocco has continued their remarkable giant-killing tradition on football’s biggest stage.

Africa has a reputation for producing giant-killers, but Morocco's exploits on the biggest stage are nothing short of remarkable. The Atlas Lions, who stunned Spain and Portugal in the 2022 World Cup to reach the semi-finals, have added the Netherlands to their growing list of European giants toppled on football’s biggest stage.

The knockout stages have only just begun, and fans are in for more thrilling action. Will another giant fall next? The question on everyone's lips is: who's next?

5 Key Facts

  • Germany and the Netherlands were the first European teams to be eliminated from the World Cup
  • Paraguay defeated Germany 4-3 in a penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1 after extra time
  • Morocco defeated the Netherlands 3-2 in a penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1 after extra time
  • Morocco has reached the Round of 16 in the World Cup for the third consecutive tournament
  • The Atlas Lions have defeated three European teams in the World Cup, including Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands

African teams have consistently punched above their weight in the World Cup, and Morocco's performances are no exception. Their exploits in Qatar four years ago were a turning point for African football, and their continued success in 2026 is a testament to their growing strength.

The knockout stages of the World Cup have only just begun, and fans are in for more thrilling action. Who's next to fall?