Adedokun Waliyu Brazil begin their knockout-stage campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday as they face Japan in the Round of 32, while Germany take on Paraguay and Morocco meet the Netherlands in one of the most anticipated ties of the round.
Brazil, aiming for a record sixth World Cup title, topped their group ahead of Morocco, with Vinicius Junior scoring four goals. Coach Carlo Ancelotti has urged his players to stay focused, while Japan are confident they can repeat their 3–2 friendly victory over Brazil from last year.
Germany face Paraguay in their first World Cup knockout match since winning the 2014 final. Coach Julian Nagelsmann insists Germany are playing to win the tournament, while Kai Havertz says the team’s attack is close to reaching its full potential.
The Netherlands and Morocco, ranked eighth and seventh in the world respectively, are expected to produce one of the closest contests of the Round of 32. The winner will face Canada, who reached the last 16 for the first time after Stephen Eustaquio’s stoppage-time goal secured a 1–0 victory over South Africa.
In Saudi Arabia, Football Federation president Yasser Al-Misehal has resigned following the Green Falcons’ group-stage elimination, despite previously leading the country’s successful bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
