The US–Canada–Mexico World Cup Round of 16 kicked off on June 29. Multiple matches delivered dramatic twists, with upsets and last-minute winners coming one after another. In the early-morning opener, Canada faced South Africa. Both sides defended tightly throughout the match and it stayed locked in a stalemate until the 92nd minute, when Eustaquio struck a volley to secure a 1-0 win for Canada. It was the first time in the team’s history that they reached the World Cup Round of 16, setting a new record for North American football.

In the early-morning marquee clash, Brazil took on Japan. In the first half, Sano Kaishu punished a mistake in the back line with a long-range shot to put Japan ahead 1-0. In the second half, Casemiro headed the game level. Both teams had multiple attacking chances but couldn’t find the breakthrough, and with extra time seemingly on the horizon, Martinelli converted a shot in stoppage time to seal the winner. Brazil completed a 2-1 comeback to eliminate Japan, and the last remaining Asian team was knocked out in the first round of the knockout stage.

A huge upset broke in the evening as well. Germany faced Paraguay, and the match finished 1-1 after regular time and extra time. In the penalty shootout, Germany missed consecutive spot kicks, and was eliminated 4-5 on aggregate. The traditional powerhouse was sent packing early once again. With the competition level in this year’s knockout stage rising significantly, weaker teams repeatedly withstood pressure from the giants. Many encounters were not decided until the very last moment, and the race for the quarterfinals promises plenty of highlights.