World Cup Elimination Drama: Brazil’s Comeback and Penalty Shootout Surprises

Brazil triumphed over Japan with a thrilling 2-1 victory, scoring the winning goal in the sixth minute of injury time. Meanwhile, two European teams faced unexpected exits in penalty shootouts on a dramatic day of World Cup elimination action.

Brazil’s Comeback Against Japan

Japan’s troubles in knockout matches persisted, continuing with their defeat against Brazil in Houston. Kaishu Sano put Japan ahead in the 29th minute by scoring his first international goal, eluding Casemiro, and placing the ball to Alisson’s right from outside the box.

Japan almost secured their most monumental victory, leading at halftime. Casemiro, however, equalized in the second half, heading in a goal as Japan played defensively. At 34 years and 126 days, Casemiro became the second-oldest Brazilian to score in the World Cup, following Bebeto. To secure the win, Coach Carlo Ancelotti introduced Gabriel Martinelli instead of Neymar. Martinelli scored the decisive goal after Japan lost possession near their penalty box.

Brazil’s next opponents will be decided in today’s game between Ivory Coast and Norway.

European Giants Fall in Shootouts

Paraguay shocked Germany with a 4-3 win on penalties, marking the World Cup’s most significant upset thus far. Germany had never lost a World Cup penalty shootout, maintaining victories in previous attempts against France, Mexico, England, and Argentina. After a 1-1 draw in extra time, Julio Enciso scored first for Paraguay, and Kai Havertz replied for Germany. The win was celebrated in Paraguay as a national holiday.

Meanwhile, nine African teams advanced from the group stage to the round of 32, including Morocco. They defeated the Netherlands on penalties following another 1-1 draw. Cody Gakpo scored for the Netherlands, then shared an emotional moment with teammates due to personal loss. Issa Diop’s stoppage-time goal equalized for Morocco, and Ismael Saibari’s penalty secured their victory.

Morocco will play Canada in Houston on Saturday in the round of 16.

Upcoming Matches

Today’s elimination games feature France against Sweden, Ivory Coast versus Norway, and Mexico facing Ecuador. France, sweeping their group matches, have been notable with ten goals scored and two conceded. Sweden struggled defensively, allowing five goals against the Netherlands and seven overall. France’s Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé have impressively scored four goals each.

Norway is a favorite against Ivory Coast thanks to Erling Haaland’s presence, playing their first knockout match in 28 years. Mexico, as a co-host, will have strong home support in Mexico City, while Ecuador is motivated by their recent win over Germany.

Todays Schedule

• 1 p.m. ET: Ivory Coast vs. Norway
• 5 p.m. ET: France vs. Sweden
• 9 p.m. ET: Mexico vs. Ecuador

All matches can be watched on Telemundo or Peacock.

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