If there is one word to describe the Round of 32 so far, it’s drama.
Brazil survived an early scare against Japan to advance with a 2-1 victory. Japan struck first through Sano, who scored his first international goal, before Brazil answered in the 56th minute. Just when extra time seemed inevitable, Gabriel Martinelli found the winner deep into stoppage time to send the five-time champions through.
Germany and Paraguay needed more than 90 minutes to decide a winner. After both sides scored on headed goals to finish regulation tied 1-1, Germany thought it had won in extra time when Jonathan Tah headed home another goal. However, the strike was ruled out for obstruction on the goalkeeper. The match went to penalties, where Paraguay pulled off one of the tournament’s biggest upsets, eliminating Germany 4-3.
The day’s marquee matchup between the Netherlands and Morocco lived up to the hype. Cody Gakpo finished off a brilliant team move to give the Dutch the lead, but Morocco refused to quit. Issa Diop headed home a dramatic equalizer in stoppage time to force extra time. After neither side could find a winner, Morocco prevailed 3-2 in a penalty shootout, making it two straight Round of 32 matches decided from the spot.
The knockout stage continues today with three more exciting matchups.
Norway takes on Ivory Coast at 1 p.m., followed by an all-European showdown between France and Sweden at 5 p.m. The day’s action concludes at 9 p.m. as tournament host Mexico faces Ecuador at Mexico City Stadium for a place in the Round of 16.
MyFM Sports Director Dylan Potemri will continue bringing listeners daily World Cup Updates throughout the tournament, featuring match recaps, major storylines, and previews of upcoming matches.
Fans looking to experience the World Cup atmosphere locally can visit official MetroWest fan zones, viewing parties, and special events happening throughout the region. For schedules, locations, and additional information, visit MetroWestVisitors.org.
