Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 1, 2026, 8:31 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Heats Up with Major Upsets and Rising Stars

The 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stages have delivered a series of dramatic encounters, with established powers facing unexpected challenges and emerging nations making their mark. Germany, a perennial favorite, was stunned by Paraguay on penalties in a shocking upset after a 1-1 draw that saw Kai Havertz and Nick Woltemade miss crucial spot-kicks. FIFA later clarified the controversial VAR decision that disallowed Germany's extra-time goal, explaining that referees were instructed to penalize such fouls before the tournament began. Julian Nagelsmann conceded that Germany is no longer a "first-class team", though he expressed a desire to remain as head coach.

Mexico continued their dominant run at their home stadium, the Estadio Azteca, defeating Ecuador 2-0 44, 49 to secure their first World Cup knockout victory in 40 years. The atmosphere at the "Fortress Azteca" was deafening, and Mexico's flawless record of four wins without conceding a goal presents a daunting prospect for their next opponents. Ecuador manager Sebastian Beccacece confirmed his departure following the team's exit, and the South American side also lodged a complaint regarding noisy local fans outside their team hotel.

France, meanwhile, looked every bit the contender as Kylian Mbappé inspired a 3-0 rout of Sweden 62. Mbappé broke the record for most World Cup knockout goals and reached six tournament goals, drawing comparisons to Lionel Messi. Coach Didier Deschamps attributed the team's success to his bold tactical changes, with Ousmane Dembele also finding form with a hat-trick. Gary Neville described France as "a level above" the competition.

The United States men's national team is preparing for their round-of-32 clash against Bosnia and Herzegovina, with Christian Pulisic declaring himself fit and ready to play the full match. Coach Gregg Berhalter faces the challenge of breaking down a defensive opponent, where Bosnia and Herzegovina's set-piece specialty could prove decisive. The USMNT, boasting a world-class coach and players in their prime, sees this World Cup on home soil as its chance to make a significant mark on global soccer. Analysts remain divided on how far the U.S. can advance. England, under Thomas Tuchel, is entering what he calls the "danger zone" 16, 28 of the tournament, with the coach suggesting that early exits of major teams like Germany and the Netherlands might "calm our minds" and prevent overconfidence. Despite a less-than-brilliant group stage, England remains among the betting favorites. However, they face DR Congo without injured right-backs Jarell Quansah and Reece James, and Gary Neville has criticized the team's disrespect for the full-back position. England will adhere to their predecessor's penalty shootout plan.

Norway's World Cup aspirations rest heavily on the shoulders of Erling Haaland, who scored an 86th-minute winner 80, 88 to defeat Ivory Coast 2-1 and set up a last-16 clash with Brazil. Stale Solbakken hailed Haaland as the "greatest goal scorer in the world". Brazil themselves survived a scare, with Gabriel Martinelli scoring in stoppage time to edge past Japan 2-1. Japan, 20 years removed from a heavy defeat to Brazil, now feels more prepared to challenge the South American giants.

Other notable results include Spain booking a tie against Austria despite questions surrounding their performances and coach Luis de la Fuente, while Virgil van Dijk remains a key figure for the Netherlands, who were knocked out on penalties by Morocco after Cody Gakpo scored days after the loss of his unborn son. Ronald Koeman resigned as Netherlands manager following their exit, citing "appalling" racist abuse directed