Two European heavyweights have suffered shock exits from FIFA World Cup 2026 after crashing out in the Round of 32 on Monday.
Germany and the Netherlands are the first European giants to be eliminated.
Meanwhile, Morocco have continued their remarkable giant-killing tradition on football’s biggest stage.
The knockout stages have only just begun, but they have already delivered everything football fans could hope for.
There have been stunning upsets, dramatic penalty shootouts and unforgettable moments.
GERMANY STUNNED BY PARAGUAY
Few would have predicted Germany and the Netherlands would fail to reach the Round of 16. Yet, that is exactly what has happened.
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.
It is arguably the biggest upset of FIFA World Cup 2026 so far and certainly the shock of the Round of 32 to date.
AFRICAN GIANTS SEND NETHERLANDS PACKING
Morocco also claimed another famous European scalp.
The Atlas Lions defeated the Netherlands in another dramatic Round of 32 encounter.
Just like Germany’s defeat, the match finished 1-1 after extra time before Morocco prevailed 3-2 on penalties.
Unlike Germany’s elimination, however, this result was not a major upset.
Morocco and the Netherlands entered the match ranked sixth and seventh, respectively, in the latest FIFA rankings.
It was always expected to be one of the close and high-quality tie.
Unfortunately, one side had to go home.
For Morocco, it is another unforgettable chapter in their FIFA World Cup story.
The Atlas Lions stunned the football world in Qatar four years ago by eliminating Spain and Portugal en route to a historic semi-final appearance.
Now, they have added the Netherlands to their growing list of European giants toppled on football’s biggest stage.
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