"VAN" (Sports Desk - 29.06.2026) :: The FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage continues with a blockbuster trio of Round of 32 ties as Brazil, Germany and the Netherlands continue their pursuit of football's ultimate prize. Standing in their way are Japan, Paraguay and Morocco respectively – three dangerous opponents with every reason to believe they can topple their rivals.
After a draw with Morocco in their opener, a Vinicius Junior-inspired Brazil quickly hit their stride, easing past Haiti and Scotland to top Group C. Japan also progressed unbeaten to finish runners-up in Group F behind the Netherlands.
Incredibly, Germany have reached the knockout stage for the first time since winning the World Cup in 2014, but a Group E-ending defeat to Ecuador offers Paraguay hope of an upset. Quarter-finalists in 2010, La Albirroja came through Group D as one of the best third-placed teams.
The Netherlands and Morocco, meanwhile, put their unbeaten starts on the line in a showdown between two of the 2026 competition's most eye-catching sides. The Oranje collected seven points in Group F – a tally matched by Mohamed Ouahbi's Atlas Lions, who finished second to Group C-toppers Brazil on goal difference.
Cr-FIFA2026
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