By Shishir Prashant 
PrashantNews
Brazil survived a spirited challenge from Japan to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory, while four-time champions Germany and former runners-up the Netherlands suffered stunning exits as the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 produced a day of unforgettable upsets.
At Houston’s NRG Stadium, five-time world champions Brazil needed a stoppage-time winner to overcome a fearless Japanese side. Japan stunned the favourites by taking the lead in the first half through Kaishu Sano, exposing Brazil’s sluggish defence. Carlo Ancelotti’s men looked rattled before veteran midfielder Casemiro restored parity with a powerful second-half header. Just when extra time appeared inevitable, Gabriel Martinelli struck in the 95th minute after brilliant work by Bruno Guimaraes, sealing a dramatic 2-1 victory and sending Brazil into the Round of 16. Japan bowed out with heads held high after one of their finest World Cup performances. Though Brazil won, it was an unimpressive victory in the round of 32.
Germany’s campaign ended in heartbreak after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay. The match finished 1-1 after extra time, with Julio Enciso giving Paraguay the lead before Kai Havertz equalised for Germany. In the shootout, Paraguay held their nerve to prevail 4-3 on penalties, with goalkeeper Orlando Gill emerging as the hero through crucial saves. The result marked one of the biggest shocks of the tournament and continued Germany’s recent World Cup struggles. Final score: Germany 1-1 Paraguay (Paraguay won 4-3 on penalties).
Another major upset followed in Monterrey, where Morocco knocked out the Netherlands after an equally tense encounter. The match ended 1-1 after regulation and extra time before Morocco triumphed 3-2 in the penalty shootout, eliminating one of Europe’s strongest contenders. The Dutch failed to convert key spot-kicks as Morocco displayed remarkable composure to book their place in the Round of 16. Final score: Netherlands 1-1 Morocco (Morocco won 3-2 on penalties).
With Brazil scraping through and two European heavyweights crashing out, the Round of 32 has already underlined the unpredictability of the expanded 48-team World Cup. Paraguay and Morocco will now carry the hopes of underdog nations into the last 16, while Brazil remain alive in their quest for a record-extending sixth World Cup crown.